It was announced yesterday that the beloved Italian’s life and legacy will be celebrated with a street party on Sunday, March 24, the closing day of the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival.
The afternoon party will be held on Crossley Street next to Pellegrini’s, the landmark espresso and pasta bar Malaspina ran with his business partner Nino Pangrazio for more than 40 years.
The event will feature food and wine from some of the Bourke Street’s top chefs, and guests will enjoy the flavours of panini, gnocchi, pizza and, of course, granita from Pellegrini’s.
The event sold out in less than a day, with all 250 tickets being snapped up straight away.
Five dollars from every ticket sold will be donated to the Salvation Army in honour of Malaspina.
“What better way to pay tribute to one of the pioneers of our city’s café culture than to hold a street party in his honour as part of the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival,” City of Melbourne Lord Mayor Sally Capp told reporters on Crossley Street yesterday.
“Sisto loved our city and made people from all over the world feel welcome having a coffee in Melbourne. This incredible hospitality lives on at Pellegirini’s and the street party will give Melburnians the opportunity to come together and enjoy delicious cuisine from Pellegrini’s and their neighbours.”
The mayor was joined by Malaspina’s family, restaurateurs from neighbouring venues and Food and Wine Victoria CEO Anthea Loucas Bosha.
Vicky Malaspina yesterday spoke publicly for the first time since her husband’s tragic death.
“Sisto would be rapt, he loved a party, he loved to entertain, and if there’s anything to do with a party he’ll be right here,” she said.
For more information, visit the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival’s website.
