Is Cafe Notturno Shut Down? Why is Cafe Notturno Shut Down?
by Alaguvelan M
Updated Aug 22, 2023
Cafe Notturno
Cafe Notturno, an iconic establishment nestled in the vibrant heart of Melbourne, Australia, held a prominent place on Lygon Street in the Carlton district, enchanting patrons with its Italian culinary delights and enchanting late-night ambiance.
The cafe first welcomed patrons through its doors in 1978, with the visionary Salvatore Cultrera at its helm. Hailing from Italy and immigrating to Australia in 1969, Cultrera's enduring connection to both cultures imbued the cafe with authenticity and warmth. His journey saw him diligently serving at the cafe before ultimately taking the reins as its proprietor in 2003.
Cafe Notturno swiftly captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike, its magnetic allure stemming from a trifecta of qualities: an amiable and welcoming service, attractive affordability, and a menu boasting delectable Italian fare. The establishment also emerged as a nexus of celebration, having orchestrated an array of lively events spanning live music sessions, karaoke nights, and pulsating dance soirées.
An endearing chapter concluded as Cafe Notturno shuttered its doors on August 27, 2023, after a remarkable 45-year journey. The poignant announcement emanated from Cultrera himself, who deemed it an opportune juncture for transformation. In extending his heartfelt gratitude, he paid tribute to the steadfast support of his patrons and expressed a profound sense of pride in their shared accomplishments.
The departure of Cafe Notturno marks a poignant milestone for the Carlton community, as another emblematic establishment takes its leave. However, this chapter's end simultaneously ushers in a realm of possibilities, providing an inviting canvas for new businesses to flourish and weave fresh tales within the neighborhood's rich tapestry.
Is Cafe Notturno Shut Down?
After 45 years of operation, the renowned Cafe Notturno on Lygon Street is preparing to bid farewell this Sunday, August 27. Affectionately referred to as "Notties," this Italian eatery has left an indelible mark by hosting notable figures like Mark "Chopper" Read, Formula One driver Michael Schumacher, and prominent gangland figures including Alphonse Gangitano and Tony Mokbel.
Beyond its gastronomic offerings, Cafe Notturno has been a cherished gathering spot during Lygon Street festivals, World Cup festivities, and the recent UEFA Euro 2020 finals. Owner Salvatore Cultrera even extended its hours to welcome around 200 enthusiastic Italian soccer fans celebrating inside during the finals.
Having served as a backdrop for memories and artistic creations like Sidney Sprague's work, the restaurant's tagline "where friends meet" aptly captures its welcoming essence.
In a heartfelt Facebook post, Cultrera, who dedicated 20 years to owning and a decade to working at the restaurant, announced its impending closure. He expressed gratitude to his children and his daughter Vanessa for her enduring support and growth during her tenure at Cafe Notturno.
As he and his wife shift their focus to their grandson Jayden, Cultrera extended his gratitude to the community for their unwavering support over the years. While bidding adieu to Notties is bittersweet, he looks ahead with excitement for the next chapter in his family's journey.
To mark the end of an era, the restaurant's final trading day will be on Sunday, August 27. Café patrons and friends are encouraged to visit during the week or weekend to share their goodbyes, raise a glass, and cherish the memories one last time.
Why is Cafe Notturno Shut Down?
A Melbourne institution bids farewell as Cafe Notturno prepares to close its doors after a remarkable 45 years of operation, extending heartfelt gratitude to its patrons for the cherished memories.
In a bittersweet announcement, Salvatore Cultrera, the proprietor of this iconic establishment, revealed that the beloved Carlton cafe has found new ownership, with its final day of trading set for August 27.
Affectionately known as "Notties" among regulars, Cafe Notturno commenced its journey in 1978, becoming a vibrant hub that played host to an array of Lygon Street and World Cup festivities throughout its rich history.
Cultrera's own journey intertwined deeply with the cafe, having embarked on his association in 1989 before eventually assuming ownership 14 years later. Reflecting on the decades of shared experiences, he penned a heartfelt message on Facebook, reminiscing on the lively Lygon St Festas, memorable World Cup soccer tournaments, including the triumphant 1982 and 2006 editions, and the more recent UEFA Euro 2020, which unfolded amidst the challenges of the pandemic.
Under the stewardship of Cultrera and cousin Sal Germano, who took the reins in 2003, the cafe thrived. Cultrera expressed his profound gratitude to the remarkable people he encountered along the way, emphasizing the lasting friendships that have been forged over the three decades of his presence.
The legacy of Cafe Notturno extends beyond its proprietor, as Cultrera warmly acknowledged his family's role in this journey. His children Elle, Vanessa, and Joseph grew up within the cafe's embrace, while his wife Linda, whom he met in 1990, stood by his side, enabling him to channel his energies into the cafe's success. As they transition to the next chapter of their lives, their little grandson Jayden takes center stage, symbolizing new horizons.
The cafe's forthcoming transformation into an Indian restaurant under new ownership is met with well-wishes from Cultrera, who offered his support and best wishes for this new culinary journey.
With a sense of both nostalgia and anticipation, Cultrera invited the community to join him for one last hurrah. The final trading day, August 27, holds the opportunity for patrons and friends to gather, reminisce, bid adieu, and share a toast in honor of Cafe Notturno's storied legacy.
Cafe Notturno Closing
A beloved culinary landmark in Melbourne, cherished by sports icons and even infamous underworld figures over nearly half a century, is set to bid a fond farewell as it readies to close its doors.
Cafe Notturno, an enduring Italian eatery and a quintessential nocturnal haven nestled within Carlton's iconic Lygon Street dining enclave, has etched its presence into the hearts of both locals and visitors alike for a remarkable span of 45 years.
Within the welcoming confines of this establishment, luminaries such as former Formula One star Michael Schumacher, AFL legend Gary Ablett Sr, and notorious personalities like Tony Mokbel and the late Mark 'Chopper' Read have gathered, cementing Cafe Notturno's place as a hub of intrigue and indulgence known fondly as 'Notties'.
This Sunday night will mark the final chapter for Cafe Notturno, as it prepares to bid adieu to its loyal patrons. The premises, having recently changed hands, are destined for a new culinary journey under new proprietors who plan to metamorphose the venue into an Indian restaurant.
Co-owner Salvatore Cultrera imparted this poignant news through a heartfelt message on the cafe's Facebook page, encapsulating the sentiment of 45 years filled with love, camaraderie, kinship, and a treasure trove of cherished memories.
Mr. Cultrera's intimate relationship with the establishment was both personal and professional, having devoted a decade of his life as part of its fabric before, alongside a cousin, assuming ownership in 2003. Notties was also the very space that kindled a connection between Mr. Cultrera and his wife Linda, whose partnership was woven 33 years ago in this very space.
His recollections paint a vivid tapestry of the cafe's history, punctuated by the jubilant street Festas, the electrifying spectacles of World Cup soccer tournaments, including victorious campaigns in 1982, 2006, and the recent foray into UEFA Euro 2020 amid the challenging backdrop of the pandemic.
As the final chapter approaches, Cultrera expressed a bittersweet sentiment, acknowledging the void that the cafe's absence will leave, while also embracing the excitement of new horizons beckoning him and his family. In a gracious gesture, Mr. Cultrera extended his well-wishes to the incoming occupants, symbolizing a graceful passing of the baton to the next chapter in the venue's legacy.
The impending closure ignited an outpouring of tributes from devoted Notties enthusiasts, a testament to the profound impact that this haven of coffee, pizza, and camaraderie had on their lives.
Is Cafe Notturno Shut Down - FAQs
Cafe Notturno, a well-known establishment in Melbourne, has recently announced its closure.
According to Salvatore Cultrera, the owner, it was time for a change, and he expressed his gratitude to customers for their support over the years.
Cafe Notturno closed on August 27, 2023, after 45 years of operation.
Cafe Notturno was renowned for its Italian cuisine, late-night atmosphere, and hosting various events such as live music and dance parties.
Salvatore Cultrera, the owner, opened Cafe Notturno in 1978 after working there for several years. He eventually became the owner in 2003.