Farewell, Ciao to The Italians
After 10 years of filling the bellies of those seeking authentic Italian cuisine in Kerikeri - the owners of The Italians restaurant are moving to the Kapiti Coast in Wellington.
Co-owners Cesare and Denise Stella say they are sad to be leaving but other opportunities in the capital had proven too good to pass up.
With a television cooking show in the pipeline - which will air in New Zealand and Cesare’s home country of Italy - the move to Wellington allows more opportunity and time for Cesare to work on the project.
He says he will also be working side by side with a fellow Italian chef to take the concept of The Italians to Wellington in an already established restaurant on the coast.
Cesare says the lease on their current building on Kerikeri Rd was expiring and with the site set down for demolition there was no lease to be renewed.
‘‘It was just a matter of time before moving. We’ve made lots of friends and customers, we have had incredible public support.
‘‘It is typical of our supporters that while they are sad to see us go, they have also said ‘well done and congratulations’.’’
The couple say it was a hard decision to leave Kerikeri but Cesare says he is looking forward to making his mark on something else.
‘‘Some of the regular customers are like family to us.’’
While Cesare will remain cooking, Denise is set to take a break from the kitchen.
The Italians last business day is March 18.
Cesare and Denise say they will keep people updated via their Facebook page.