One thing’s for sure. Hamilton and Ascot foodies would most certainly not be strangers to Gino’s Restaurant. This popular family-owned restaurant celebrates 40 years in business in 2021, making it a local fixture on Kingsford Smith Drive and everyone’s favourite Italian haunt.
Gino Fiorini first opened his eponymous restaurant in 1975, serving pizza and pasta in a casual format reminiscent of traditional Italian home cooking.
Six years later, in 1981, Sayed and Deborah Barakat took over running the business, continuing the traditional Italian menu and ambience, whilst ensuring the quality of food remains the same.
Over the last decade, the reins of the business have been passed to the next generation. Sayed and Deborah’s children – Simon, Charlotte, and Dominique, have been overseeing the business. Their cousin Eddie has also spent many years working in the restaurant.
Except for the addition of a few dishes, nothing much has changed over the last four decades. People order their pizza while others are enjoying their oysters.
Customers craving for their Italian fix come to enjoy the popular schnitzel and spaghetti, which is composed of crumbed veal served with spaghetti bolognese, best enjoyed with chips, napolitana sauce, or a choice of pasta sauce.
Ladies who lunch also find themselves setting their diets aside to enjoy Simon’s Special, fettuccini served with fresh chilli, bacon & prawns in napolitana sauce.
As a fully licensed restaurant, Gino’s also serves a wide range of beers, wines, and spirits. Patrons can also opt for BYO for their favourite bottled wines.
“Just the smell alone of the food, walking past the restaurant is enough to draw you in and you won’t be disappointed when you do go in. The food is authentic, fresh, and amazing,” said one of their regulars.
With authentic recipes curated and developed over the past four decades, this family restaurant’s menu hasn’t had to make many adjustments in order to maintain its relevance over the years.
Gino’s is also known for its excellent service and the place’s friendly vibe, attentive staff, and swift order times.
Gino’s Italian Restaurant is conveniently located at 468 Kingsford Smith Drive, Hamilton. They are open for dinner Tuesday to Friday and on weekends, the kitchen remains open for pickup or delivery. Customers can order for pickup or have their food delivered through UberEats, Deliveroo and DoorDash. Visit their website for more information or follow them on Facebook and Instagram for updates on special deals, promotions, and their business hours.