OUR STORY
While Arlecchino has been serving Inverclyde authentic Italian cuisine since 1966, our roots run much deeper.
Our story begins in 1908, when Nonno Mazzoni left the village of Castiglione Vara, near La Spezia, to find work abroad. After serving his country in World War I, he married Nonna Eda, and in 1921, the couple arrived in Greenock. They established Mazzoni’s Café, a spot that quickly became a local favourite. By 1927, they had moved to our current premises, expanding the business alongside their sons, Dino and Bruno, before retiring to Italy in 1962.
The next generation, Dino and Bruno, alongside their wives Licia and Gina, transformed the café in 1966. They renamed it Arlecchino, inspired by the iconic comic figure of 16th-century Italian folklore.
The family faced tragedy in 1971 with the untimely passing of Dino at just 44. When Bruno and Gina emigrated to Australia the following year, it was Licia who became the heart of the business, carrying it forward with unwavering dedication until her retirement in 1997.
The torch was then passed to Licia’s sons, Giovanni and Michele. In early 2025, after decades of shared leadership, Michele began a well-earned retirement. Today, Giovanni continues to run Arlecchino with the support of a dedicated team, including members of the family’s fourth generation. Together, we honour our rich history, serving the Inverclyde community with the same passion and hospitality that started it all over a century ago.
From Mazzoni’s Café in 1921 to Arlecchino today, our story is defined by the people we serve. Whether you’ve been visiting us for decades or it’s your first time, there’s always a seat waiting for you.