SA Italian food retailer Mercato to close its Campbelltown location in August as it relocates to Eighty Eight O’Connell development

An Italian food icon will close its beloved store in Adelaide’s northeastern suburbs as it makes a huge move into a new multimillion-dollar development.

Family-owned business, Mercato, run by John Caporaso, middle, and launched by his parents, Mario and Imma, second and third from left, will close their beloved Campbelltown store as they relocate to the new 88 O'Connell St redevelopment.

Iconic South Australian food retailer Mercato will close its Campbelltown site later this year as it launches a new flagship store in the Eighty Eight O’Connell development.

The beloved delicatessen, which has been located on Lower North East Rd for twenty years, will shut its doors for good on August 31.

Mercato North Adelaide will then open in September, offering an expanded retail space, a new white tablecloth restaurant and casual cafe, plus a large outdoor piazza dining area.

Mercato managing director John Caporaso said it was time for the family-owned business –established by his parents, Imma and Mario Caporaso, in Rostrevor in 1972 – to take the next step.

“Adelaide’s northeastern suburbs has been a wonderful part of our journey. We’re proud of everything that Campbelltown has meant to us and the community,” he said.

Renders of the new Mercato North Adelaide.

Renders of the new Mercato North Adelaide.

“Our roots will never be forgotten... but it’s time for a change. It’s time to bring this to a new generation.”

Mr Caporaso said they looked closely at their business model and decided it was best to focus on a sole location.

“For us, this isn’t about moving – it’s about evolving. We’re really excited. Onwards and upwards,” he said.

The new store will feature three dining options, starting with their “grab and go” takeaway section, a casual cafe serving up pasta and pizza favourites, plus a separate formal restaurant with an expanded menu.

Customers will also be able to dine in an outdoor alfresco area on the corner of Tynte and O’Connell Streets.

Renders of the new Mercato North Adelaide.

Mario and Imma Caporaso.

Mercato North Adelaide’s retail space will be much larger than their Campbelltown site and sell their traditional range of fine produce, smallgoods, cheeses, oils, vinegar and fresh pasta. They will host regular events and cooking masterclasses.

“It’s still Mercato. It’s homey, and it’s welcoming,” Mr Caporaso said.

“Our family has never stood still. Every generation has added something new – a store, a service, a story. North Adelaide is our next contribution to that legacy.”