Italian restaurateur Enzo Leone future plans

The Enzo Leone touch on Camden has spanned four decades with the popular Italian restaurateur revealing his future plans after serving the region for 32 years.

Enzo Leone and his wife Laura reveal their future plans after more than 32 years in the Camden hospitality industry. Picture: Robert Pozo

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The Enzo Leone touch on Camden’s booming dining scene has spanned four decades.

Now in the middle of a break from the industry, the respected Italian restaurateur has revealed he hasn’t ruled out a return to the kitchen.

After introducing authentic Italian cuisine to Camden in 1986 through Enzo’s Italian Restaurant, Mr Leone then launched popular eateries Cafe Leone, La Bella Vita, and most recently Barenz in 2009.

Enzo Leone launched four restaurants in the Camden area since the mid-1980s. Picture: Robert Pozo

Speaking exclusively to the Chronicle, an emotional Mr Leone shared the highlights of his Camden culinary journey across the past 32 years.

He said he was the first to deliver authentic Italian cuisine to Camden in the mid-1980s.

“People didn’t even know what spaghetti was in those days,” he said.

“I would say ‘listen, I cook for you, you try. If you like, you pay. If you don’t, don’t pay’.

“They loved it and that was the start.”

The love affair with the Camden community flourished with Cafe Leone launched in the mid-1990s, followed by La Bella Vita in the early 2000s.

High-profile guests such as the Australian prime minister, Australian Test cricketers and international music stars frequented the popular establishment, as well as thousands of local customers.

Former Australian Prime Minister John Howard with Enzo Leone.

Mr Leone said his interaction with the Camden community was something he missed.

“I like people, I like to talk to people, I like to look after them,” he said.

“(Customers) become a friend, not a customer. They become part of the family.”

Enzo Leone has been a leader in Camden’s hospitality industry since 1986.

Mr Leone, a father-of-10 and grandfather, said he had not given up hope of a return to the Camden hospitality scene.

“I loved work,” he said.

“I can work right now if I want to. Physically and mentally I am okay.

“Right now I want a break to clear my mind, but never say never.”

Former owner of Barenz Enzo Leone.

Barenz was placed in voluntary administration in November.

In a statement, Mr Leone family clarified his and wife Laura’s lack of involvement with Barenz since 2017.

It is understood Barenz has since been sold to a new party.

Full statement from Enzo Leone and members of his family:

As you may be aware BARENZ was put into Administration by Luke Leone, the previous sole owner/manager.

Enzo and the rest of the Leone Family were not involved in the running of the business and were unaware Barenz was being put into administration until after it was made public.

Barenz has since been purchased by another party and Enzo, Laura and family have no ties to the establishment.

After 32 years serving his beloved Camden community, Enzo sincerely thanks you for the friendships and continued support over the years and is proud of his part in putting Camden on the culinary map.