Co-founder, Rocky Pantaleo honoured by Italian restaurant franchise, La Porchetta

La Porchetta  restaurant franchise in North Carlton has honoured the memory of co-founder Rocky Pantaleo on Monday, 11th April.

City of Yarra Councillor, Jackie Fristacky was among some of the guest speakers and recalled Rocky’s larger than life presence, passion for life, love of a challenge, mischievous sense of humour and generosity.

A prolific motorcycle collector, Rocky’s latest acquisition, a Honda DN 01, was unveiled at the restaurant franchise’s tribute.

The unique Honda DN 01 is a prototype made in Italy and is fully branded with Lazio Soccer Club colours. It’s also autographed by all the Lazio players, club staff and by Rome’s Mayor.

Rocky purchased the bike a year before his death at a charity auction to raise funds for a club fan’s family after he died in an accident returning home from a game.

The North Carlton restaurant has displayed the best of his collection.

Arriving in Australia at age 21, Rocky had no English skills and little restaurant experience but was determined to build the best life for himself and his family.

Rocky and business partner, Felice Nania managed to turn a tired restaurant into a local establishment before growing their restaurant franchises around the country. La Porchetta is now the largest Italian-style restaurant franchise in Asia-Pacific.

Throughout the 25 years of his franchising efforts, Rocky kept managing and working at the North Carlton restaurant every day. The North Carlton restaurant is now managed by his wife, Natalie and their children.

Sara Pantaleo, Rocky’s sister and CEO of the La Porchetta Group said, “Rocky was a family man who cared about children and their welfare. He touched many people with his generosity and he was especially supportive of charities that give ill and disabled children the best possible start in life. He made a big difference to many young lives.”