Gemelli owner’s to open new Italian restaurant, Papa Rolly’s in Carrara
The restaurant royalty behind Gemelli are expanding their Gold Coast empire with a new neighbourhood venue featuring handmade pasta and wood-fired pizzas.
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The team behind an Italian hospitality empire are expanding with a new venue featuring handmade pasta and wood-fired pizzas.
Alec, Paul and James Carney are days away from opening an “old-school” restaurant called Papa Rolly’s in Carrara.
It will become the fifth venue for the trio as they continue to cash in on the success of their first restaurant, Gemelli, which opened in Broadbeach in 2013.
“Papa Rolly’s is designed to feel like a classic Italian trattoria with a modern twist, cosy seating and a casual, inviting atmosphere,” James said.
In 2016, the trio opened Papa Rolly’s food truck, a concept which was inspired by their late grandfather.
“It’s a full circle moment for us, taking that original concept and turning it into a permanent venue,” James said.
“The idea was to create a place that feels like home, where families and friends can come together over great Italian food in a relaxed and fun environment.”
James said, while Papa Rolly’s was going to be a more “laid-back” version of Gemelli, they would stick to a similar menu.
“Our success at Gemelli has always come from our dedication to handmade, authentic Italian food and creating a welcoming atmosphere where people want to return again and again,” he said.
“Papa Rolly’s will offer a range of classic Italian dishes, including handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas and home-style Italian favourites.”
The trio have venues scattered across the Gold Coast in hotspot locations such as Nobby Beach, Broadbeach and Bundall. James said they saw an opportunity in Carrara.
“Carrara has a great local community There aren’t many places like this nearby, so we wanted to create a venue that gives locals an authentic Italian dining experience without having to travel far,” he said.
“We will also be bringing a taste of our latest creation Gelato Gemelli to the Carrara community.”
Papa Rolly’s is tipped to open on April 8.
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Originally published as Gemelli owner’s to open new Italian restaurant, Papa Rolly’s in Carrara