Pizza and pasta lovers, get excited, because the crew behind Gemelli Italian are opening their sixth restaurant soon, and it’s going back to their Italian trattoria roots. Named for the very first food truck twins Alec and James Carney (along with older brother Paul) launched back in 2016, Papa Rolly’s is bringing Gemelli’s signature handmade Italian fare to Carrara early this year, with construction well underway.
The inspiration for the Papa Rolly’s name goes back even further than that food truck, to the team’s late great-grandfather, Papa Rolando. Leaning into a relaxed, nostalgic Italian vibe, here you can expect the handmade, authentic fare Gemelli’s is known for dished up in a neighbourhood setting—think red-and-white tablecloths, and a space that feels more like a home than a restaurant.
Alec and James explained why they felt drawn to Carrara, saying “We feel our company ethics of growing up cooking with mum resonates well in a community location and we want to bring that vibe to Carrara like we did with Roy’s By Gemelli. Carrara has always had a great local community, and we wanted to create a spot that felt like home, a place where families, friends, and locals could come together over great food without having to travel too far.”
So what’s on the menu? The boys are keeping things close to their chest for now, but they have promised that a few of their Gemelli-style classics will make it over to the menu, along with comforting Italian favourites like handmade pastas, crispy wood-fired pizzas, and some special surprise additions. A selection of Italian wines and cocktails will also be on offer, but if those aren’t your speed, you can also BYO.
Not just a restaurant, the venue will also bring the crew’s new dessert creation to Carrara in the form of Gelato Gemelli. A separate gelato bar means you can also just stop by for a scoop, or grab a tub to take home with your takeaway pizza, because there will also be a strong focus on takeaway eats for those that prefer to dine in.
“Bringing our handmade Italian food to a new audience is always exciting,” add Alec and James, “but Papa Rolly’s is extra special because it’s been years in the making. From the food truck days to now having a permanent home for the concept (and the Papa Rolly's brand), it’s a full-circle moment. We’re also excited about the energy of the space, it’s casual, fun, and all about good times with good people.”
If you’re already anxiously awaiting the opening date, you can track their journey on Instagram here. Otherwise, stay tuned for an inside look when they open the doors.
Image credit: Supplied