Favaro family brings touch of Chianti to Carrick Hill

The new venture is tipped to open before the end of the year as part of a $7.2m redevelopment to one of Adelaide’s most famous historic homes.

The Favaro family, which operates Chianti, will open a restaurant at Carrick Hill’s new $7.2m pavilion in November. Picture: Domenic Scopelliti

The family behind Adelaide dining landmark Chianti will bring a touch of its Northern Italian hospitality to a new restaurant at Carrick Hill’s $7.2m pavilion development.

Frank and Maria Favaro began their highly successful business 40 years ago at the original Chianti in Light Square, before relocating to Hutt St in 2001, with their children Jessica and Nick now running the restaurant and adjacent Bar Torino.

Favaro Group director Jessica Favaro-Richards, second from left, with Carrick Hill chairman Scott Bryant, director Susan McCormack and development foundation chair Peter Kennedy at the new pavilion which is under construction. Picture: Domenic Scopelliti

Jessica Favaro-Richards, along with Chianti’s British executive chef Josh Cooke, will lead the new Carrick Hill project which is due to open in November.

“We look forward to bringing our passion for quality food and warm Italian service to the stunning garden setting of Carrick Hill,” she said.

“Both the casual restaurant and the function space up there will have their own identity, branding and names.”

Chianti owners Maria and Frank Favaro with their children Jessica and Nick, who are now the family company’s directors. Picture: Matt Turner.

The Favaro family’s experience would create a “perfect pairing” with Carrick Hill’s historic mansion, its art and antiques collection, changing exhibitions, expansive gardens and city views, said Arts Minister Andrea Michaels.

“It will attract food and history aficionados from near and far to this stunning location in the Adelaide Hills,” Ms Michaels said.

Carrick Hill director Susan McCormack said the Hayward family, which bequeathed Carrick Hill to the state in 1983, were known for their “warm hospitality”.

“Similarly, the Favaros are renowned as wonderful hosts, for their love of food, and commitment to great service,” Ms McCormack said.