Bitter feud slams Cucina Povera Vino Vero’s doors shut
An alleged feud between Maurice Terzini and Melbourne chef Joseph Vargetto, responsible for Kew’s Mister Bianco and former CBD venue Massi, is behind the closure of the recently opened Cucina Povera Vino Vero.
Expectations were high for the city-based restaurant, which had been opened for just two weeks before shutting its doors.
At first the closure was put down to Covid, however when NewsCorp journalist John Lethlean questioned the closure on Instagram on Friday night, issues came to light between the revered chef and the Bondi Iceberg’s owner.
Vargetto told the Herald Sun: “It is very unfortunate that it has come to this situation, but we have had to close Cucina Povera for the time being.”
While Terzini failed to comment, he posted on Instagram: “Been a tough start … we are working through it all and hope to have sorted next week.
“Had a series of unforeseen and unfortunate circumstances affecting our ability to do what we do best.”
While the reasons remain unclear, the hospitality rumour mill has been in overdrive.
Cucina Povera Vino Vera was Terzini’s first Melbourne restaurant in more than one decade, after launching Bondi’s hugely successful Iceberg’s restaurant.
Irit Jackson, 25th July 2022
