History of Al Martino’s Italian Restaurant

The business was formed and opened on the 10th of May 1982. The business started with two family partnerships, that being Aldo Gidaro and brother-in-law Martin Lascala; hence the names were joined to make the restaurant name – “Al” for Aldo and “Martino” for Martin. After the first 12 months in business, Martin decided to pull out of the business and this is when Aldo and his wife Chiarina planned to enlarge the premises and expand the business. Many changes to the restaurant and its service had been implemented which enhanced their business operation.

In 1990, with increasing competition in the area, the business improved its service and introduced home deliveries. Later that year, son Robert Gidaro started working in the business and by late 1999, Aldo and Chiarina had moved onto buying a new restaurant in Leichhart. In July 2000, Robert & wife Teresa Gidaro bought the business and continue to trade today. Between late 2001 and early 2003, Robert & Teresa Gidaro renovated Al Martino’s and gave Panania an Italian Restaurant with a new look, image, logo and went from a traditional style to a more contemporary decor.