The Grossi family severs all ties with Puttanesca
The Grossi family and Puttanesca have parted ways.
Until recently, Puttanesca was owned by Public Hospitality Group (PHG) which had acquired the Kew Junction pub in August 2023 after it had sat vacant for several years.
For the Sydney-based PHG, the acquisition was meant to be a triumphant entry into the Melbourne market.
However, relationships have been severely fractured, with Grossi saying, “We don’t share the same business values so we couldn’t continue with the association.”
It’s a vastly different attitude to when PHG and Grossi began their collaboration with Puttanesca. “For me, a new project has to feel right and be fun. When I’m here, and I look around, I feel good about it,” Guy Grossi told Good Food at the time.
The Grossi family announced on Monday that all ties had been severed with the restaurant and Public Hospitality.
“Grossi Group was engaged as a supplier of consulting services to the Puttanesca Osteria restaurant operated by Public Hospitality Group,” the family said.
“We have never been involved in the day-to-day operations of Public Hospitality Group. We can confirm we have now ceased our arrangement with Public Hospitality Group and will no longer be involved with Puttanesca Osteria.”
PHG, led by former KPMG dealmaker Jon Adgemis, faced significant financial difficulties in 2024 following a refinancing attempt. This led to the collapse of several businesses within the group, including prominent Sydney venues such as Oxford House, The Norfolk, and Strand Hotel.
In September 2024, concerns arose about the future of Puttanesca, as reports surfaced about Public Hospitality's financial troubles. Elizabeth Grossi-Rodriguez, co-owner of Grossi Restaurants, acknowledged the uncertainty at the time, stating, "We are waiting to see what's happening and trying to work through everything."
Since November 1, 2024, Linchpin Hospitality has assumed operations of the Clifton Hotel and acquired three other former Public Hospitality venues in Sydney: the Empire Hotel, Lady Hampshire, and Bayswater Hotel.
Linchpin's leadership team comprises CEO Terry Soukoulis and renowned chef George Calombaris. Soukoulis previously held a management position at Hotel Sorrento, where Calombaris also had professional connections.
“There aren’t many changes at Puttanesca,” restaurant manager Johnny Mathias said. “It’s still Italian food.”
Mamma’s Lasagne, which Guy Grossi introduced to Kew remains on the menu.
Jonathan Jackson, 16th January 2024
