Three generations of unwavering, authentic hospitality .
In 1960, Pietro Grossi arrived in Australia, bringing with him an enriched heritage of food, wine, and culture. His first drink in Melbourne was enjoyed at the Florentino Cellar Bar — a symbolic beginning to a lifelong journey that would shape the city’s culinary landscape. Alongside other Italian pioneers, Pietro helped introduce the Italian cucina to Melbourne, sparking a renaissance that was defined not only by its cuisine but by its sense of warmth, generosity, and community.
From those early days, the Grossi family has carried forward this spirit, weaving their values into generations that followed. The Grossi name has become synonymous with authenticity, integrity, and a profound respect for the traditions of Italian culture. Through their restaurants and their way of life, the family has played an integral role in upholding and celebrating the essence of Italy within Melbourne, leaving an indelible mark on the city’s culinary history since 1960. The Grossi brand is built upon integrity, the preservation of culture, the continuity of family tradition, and an innate belief in genuine hospitality. It is a brand defined by a living philosophy of respect — for guests, for peers, and for the craft itself. It exists not within the walls of any particular venue, but within the family who embodies it. It is the expression of a family’s story, its values, and its enduring commitment to sharing the beauty of Italian life.
When a project is associated with the Grossi name, it carries with it the same sense of generosity, authenticity, and belonging that has guided the family for generations.
Meet the Family
Guy Grossi
Guy Grossi is a highly respected chef and leading authority on Italian food, whose iconic venues have shaped
Australia’s dining culture. A best selling author and media presenter, he brings a deep understanding of cooking, exceptional technical culinary skills, and extensive expertise in kitchen operations. He possesses a strong understanding of venue concepts and their suitability across different markets, ensuring each dining experience is both authentic and commercially relevant. He is driven by tradition and a passion for bringing people together through food.
Melissa Grossi
Melissa Grossi has played a foundational role in establishing the group, with expertise in spatial concepts, design and theming, and a continuing influence on the creative direction and development of all projects.
She is also an accomplished front-of-house professional, with extensive experience in service excellence and delivering high-quality hospitality experiences.
Chris Rodriguez
Chris Rodriguez has served as Executive Chef overseeing the group’s food operations. He brings a deep understanding of kitchen operations, preparation, recipe development, training and mentoring, and is highly experienced in kitchen compliance and administration. With extensive experience delivering major hospitality projects and launching new venues both nationally and internationally, Chris plays a key role in ensuring operational excellence across the business.
Liz Grossi-Rodriguez
Liz Rodriguez is recognised for her commercial acumen, stakeholder leadership, and ability to deliver culturally and commercially relevant experiences. Her work is underpinned by a strong commitment to building equitable organisational cultures and delivering valuable training, policy and operational programs.
A Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors with a Master of Enterprise (Dean’s Honours), she brings a proven ability to create value for partners, projects and markets.
Loredana Grossi
Loredana Grossi specialises in branding, partnerships and communications, ensuring a cohesive and distinctive identity across all venues. She brings strong expertise in brand and collateral design, creative strategy, and the delivery of major projects and special events. She plays a key role in developing products and creative concepts, while maintaining brand integrity and consistency across diverse venues and markets.