Cibo Espresso began in 2000 but the desire to provide a 'simply Italian' experience for customers was born years earlier when the four founding partners, Roberto Cardone, Salvatore Pepe, Angelo Inglese and Claudio Ferraro first combined their skills to open Cibo Ristorante in Adelaide in 1996.
The restaurant quickly became a dining landmark in Adelaide, renowned for its high quality, traditional Italian menu, including cakes, pastries, gelato, pizza, wood oven bread made on the premises and outstanding coffee.
Espresso Bar culture was still in its infancy in Australia, but the Cibo directors were convinced that people were ready for a real Italian coffee bar. They secured a corner site in Rundle Street, in the heart of Adelaide, and opened their first CIBO Espresso. Here they offered artisan made, italian products in a modern bar environment - an echo of the many coffee bars which line the winding streets and piazzas of Rome.
Coffee lovers were quick to catch on to the Cibo Espresso blend that poured from the espresso machine day and night. Before long, more Cibo Espresso bars had opened in key locations all over the city and a pasticceria was working through the night to supply the sfogliatelle, cornetti, cannoli and other treats fresh each morning.
Cibo Espresso now has 17 outlets but the original passion for sharing the flavour of Italy with Australian coffee lovers is still evident in every coffee served.
About Us
The four founders of Cibo Espresso brought their own personal skills to the partnership. One is an accomplished chef, one an artisan trained pasticciere, one a renowned restaurant manager and one a fine barrista. All shared the same passion for the Italian Espresso Bar experience that has led to the success of Cibo Espresso.
Salvatore Pepe
Born in Calabria, southern Italy, Salvatore pursued his culinary career in Tuscany before emigrating to Australia at the age of 26. His dedication to fresh, seasonal ingredients treated with respect to Italian traditions is reflected in the Cibo Espresso menu which he oversees. All new products are based on traditional Italian flavours and techniques.
Angelo Inglese
Adelaide born to Italian parents, Angelo made his first espresso at the age of seven standing on a chair at the machine under the instruction of his father, a trained barista from Naples. His personal passion for excellent coffee helped change the face of cafe life in Adelaide. His complementary finance skills have helped Cibo Espresso grow into a national success story.
Roberto Cardone
Roberto grew up behind the counter of his parents' Italian continental store, developing both a broad knowledge of Italian food and a natural talent for customer service. He worked in, and subsequently owned, a number of renowned Italian restaurants before joining with his partners to open Cibo Ristorante. Inspired by experiences in Italy, he brings ideas to life for CIBO Espresso.
Claudio Ferraro
A first generation Australian, Claudio can trace his passion for the traditional cakes and pastries of Italy back to his childhood where he helped his mother bake the recipes that had been passed down through generations of her family. He trained at Alfresco and refined his skills while living in Sicily, home of some of Italy's finest desserts and sweets.
CIBO Espresso – simply italian, simply the best
Cibo Espresso was born from a passion to share the simple pleasures of the Italian lifestyle - wonderful coffee and quality food in a modern, stylish bar setting.
You can have an "Italian moment" whenever you choose, just by stepping through the door. We use 100 percent Arabica coffee beans, roasted and blended to our own special recipe. Our baristas are trained to ensure a great shot every time.
You don't have to be Italian to appreciate the quality and consistency of Cibo Espresso but a visiting Italian could be forgiven for thinking they were back at home.
