OUR STORY
OUR STORY
Ciao,
My name is Marco and I'd like to introduce myself. My father is Umberto. A true local, as he settled in the Thornbury over 50 years ago when he emigrated from Calabria, Italy - so you could say he’s no stranger to these parts.
Dad and I have a very close relationship, so much so that in 2010, we decided to fulfill a lifelong dream to open up an authentic Italian espresso bar and restaurant. Dad had been selling coffee in Australia for 30 odd years, so he’s seen the birth of Melbourne’s coffee culture and watched its many transformations over the years to the point where Melbourne’s cafes rival any city in the world.
As the son of an Italian immigrant I realised early on what was most important to Italians who made the long journey out here and forged new beginnings. Strong work ethic, good food, coffee and the most important thing, family. We’ve put all these ingredients into Umberto Espresso Bar and I think we created something simple, yet something very special.
Today, my wife Carla and I proudly continue to run the business, while Umberto remains a familiar face around the restaurant. If you visit on a Friday morning, there's a good chance you'll find him enjoying a coffee and chatting with (or often charming) customers.
More than sixteen years on, we remain an independent family business committed to doing things our way. We don't chase trends or try to reinvent hospitality. Instead, we focus on what has always mattered to us: serving honest, home-style Italian food, making proper coffee and creating a welcoming space where everyone feels at home.
Whether you're joining us for a quick espresso, a long lunch with family or a celebration with friends, our hope is that you'll feel the warmth, generosity and sense of community that have shaped Umberto Espresso Bar from the very beginning. Stop by and introduce yourself, we’d love to meet you.
Marco x
