Paladino’s Cucina to temporarily close as head chef and co-owner Joe Paladino recovers from a heart attack earlier this month
A popular restaurant in the western suburbs will remain closed for several weeks as its head chef and co-owner battle recovers from major surgery.
Food & Wine
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A popular Italian restaurant has temporarily shuts its doors after its co-owner and head chef suffered a heart attack following dinner service.
Joe Paladino, the man behind Paladino’s Cucina, in Adelaide’s western suburbs, experienced a “serious medical emergency” earlier this month.
The highly-rated eatery has been closed since the incident on July 18, and on Wednesday, the venue updated its customers on social media.
“On the evening of Friday, July 18th, after finishing dinner service and locking up for the night, Joe, our beloved owner and head chef, experienced a serious medical emergency,” said a post on Paladino Cucina’s Facebook page.
“He was taken to hospital, where it was confirmed he had suffered a heart attack. Joe underwent open heart surgery last Thursday, and we’re incredibly relieved and grateful to share that he is now recovering well.
“His strength and determination are truly inspiring, and he’s taking steady steps forward each day.”
Mr Paladino and his wife Danii launched the Henley Beach Rd restaurant in 2021, specialising in dishes from the Calabrian region of Italy.
The post said that the restaurant is expected to reopen sometime in September.
“While there’s still a journey ahead, we’re feeling optimistic,” the post said.
“Thank you for the incredible outpouring of love and support over the past few weeks. Your kindness has meant the world to us during this difficult time.
“We can’t wait to welcome you back when the time is right.”
Customers flooded the post with comments, wishing Mr Paladino a “speedy recovery”.
“Get well soon Joe – Adelaide needs its top Italian restaurant back,” wrote one person.
In 2022, British culinary queen Nigella Lawson popped into the venue for a surprise visit during her trip to Adelaide.
Ms Paladino spotted the foodie walking by the restaurant, quickly racing outside to see if Lawson would come back and pose for some photos.
Ever the gracious star, Lawson returned to the packed venue to raucous cheers.
“We were completely starstruck, lost for words,” Ms Paladino said.
“She’s absolutely gorgeous, just like she is on TV and we’re so grateful she indulged us with her time.”
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