Pellegrini’s stalwart server Rocco Eliche retires after 50 years of service

The server who became emblematic of the iconic Pellegrini’s Espresso Bar has served his final round of espresso.

“I love Pellegrini’s because I love the customers,” Rocco told CBD News. “I love the place, beautiful place to work, beautiful boss. They looked after me very well.”

Rocco recently received an award from the City of Melbourne for his 50 years of service to the community. He says he treasures it, keeping it displayed in his room.

“I can look all day, all night … that was the best present.”

“I’ve been working there six days a week, day and night, day and night,” he said. “And my boss has been good to me, especially Sisto. Him, number one. Because he sent me to school, he said, ‘You need to go to school and learn a little bit of English.’” 

At the time of speaking to CBD News, Rocco said he planned to go to the city the following day to see his boss, David Malaspina. He’s been enjoying his first few days of retirement by doing some gardening, and said he planned to go on holiday by the beach in Rosebud.

Next year, he hopes to spend some time visiting Puglia, the village he grew up in. He moved from Italy by himself at 20 years old, in search of work.

One of Rocco’s favourite parts of the job was telling customers his story, whether they were one of the many politicians, football players, singers or Pellegrini regulars he recalls meeting over the years.

At a party last Friday night, Pellegrini’s staff and customers came together to celebrate the warmth and heart Rocco brought to this local institution.

“I told my boss, if you need me, you need something, you go on holiday for one week, two weeks, one month, let me know, I can help you,” he said.

“When I go there, I feel like home.” •