Some wild and woolly spring weather was no match for the enthusiasm of Lucio’s regulars on Monday night in Paddington as the Sydney art and food landmark was packed to overflowing with well-wishers there to honour the restaurant’s 30th anniversary. “I can’t believe it’s been 30 years,” owner Lucio Galletto told the crowd. “I’ve really enjoyed every minute of it and I still love the work, to come to work with that excitement of a new day meeting people. It’s a wonderful job. The only thing that changes here is the size of my body.”
When the restaurant reached the 15-year mark, Galletto commissioned 15 artists to create plates commemorating the occasion. He has now unveiled 15 new pieces which will join them on the walls, bringing yet more culture to one of the most art-enriched eateries in the country.
We ate Waiters weaved through the crowds laden with platters of oysters and skewers of pork, lamb and veal. Bowls of crowd-pleasing arancini were mobbed.
We drank The Roederer saw the celebrations continue well into the night, while bottles of San Pellegrino helped keep things cool as the heat turned up in the kitchen.
We loved Seeing so many loyal diners and former staff members out in force to congratulate Galletto and the rest of the clan, not only as customers but as friends and family of this fine Italian dining institution. Here’s to 30 more.