"We’ve never taken a booking. If Jerry Seinfeld can’t get a table, then no one can."
Marios, a beloved cafe on Brunswick Street in Fitzroy, Melbourne, is celebrating its 40th anniversary. To mark the milestone, the venue is hosting an art exhibition in June–July and releasing a free magazine-style publication filled with contributions from customers naming their favorite dishes.
History and Background
Two Marios, One Vision. The cafe was opened by Mario Maccarone and Mario DePasquale. While one source dates the opening to April 1986, another suggests 1984. The pair met while working as waiters at Tsindos restaurant. DePasquale already ran a catering business at the time.
A Rundown Start. Brunswick Street, now a bustling hub, was then a rundown area with low rent, largely home to artists and students. The duo envisioned an "eating house"—a hybrid of bistro, restaurant, and cafe—serving all-day breakfast with continuous kitchen hours.
Operations and Policies
No Bookings, No Exceptions. Since day one, Marios has maintained a strict no-booking policy. This has famously turned away celebrities, including comedian Jerry Seinfeld, who was reportedly denied a table.
Famous Faces. Other celebrity visitors have included Kylie Minogue, Ryan Gosling, and Heath Ledger.
The Unchanging Front of House. The front-of-house area has remained largely unchanged since a 1987 renovation. The only upgrades: a customer toilet renovation and the addition of a terrazzo step in 1996.
Loyal Staff. Staff member Massimo Di Sora has worked at Marios since it opened. In the 1980s and early 1990s, the cafe's staff won the Waiter’s Race at the fringe festival multiple times.
Rotating Art. The cafe hosts a new art exhibition every three weeks.
Food and Coffee
Coffee Evolution. The cafe originally served Grinders coffee, a locally produced brand from Carlton. That changed after the brand was sold to Coca-Cola Amatil in 2005.
Late to Alternative Milks. The cafe did not offer alternative milks until approximately 15 years ago.
Customer Favorites. Longtime customer Timothy, who has dined there since the early 1990s, cites garlic bread and spaghetti bolognese as his go-to dishes.
Other Ventures
From 1992 to 2000, Marios also operated a live music and dining venue called The Continental in Prahran, which hosted numerous performers.
Recent Years and Legacy
Pivot During Pandemic. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Marios transformed into a grocery store and bottle shop, and delivered meals to local residents. DePasquale, who had retired five years prior, returned to help the business weather the crisis.
The Next Generation. Maccarone’s daughter now works part-time at the cafe. Maccarone has stated he has no plans to retire. DePasquale is no longer actively involved in daily operations.
"We don’t change the menu, we don’t take bookings, and we don’t retire."