It was a sad day for those many patrons who flocked to Osteria at Petty Sessions restaurant in Franklin when it shut its doors recently after five successful years.
The restaurant had a gold star reputation which extended beyond Tasmania and was renowned for superb fare, friendly service and fresh produce according to the season and availability, most of which was sourced locally.
But the time and effort owners, Martino and Sofia Crippa, put into the popular restaurant for five years as well as their regular stall at the Hobart Farm Gate Market took its toll and the pair decided to call it quits.
They agree working 16 hours a day, six days a week does not fit well for a healthy work/life balance.
Adding to the mix was the addition of their first child Archie, and the family’s priorities took a different tangent.
While the sit-down customers of that fine restaurant may be ruing their loss, Martino and Sofia have quickly established an alternative and within just weeks of opening it has rapidly established a solid reputation and a solid customer base.
The venture is Bottega Crippa, operating out of a small shop in Huonville, down from the roundabout and just up from the Office of Parks and Wildlife.
It is open during the day which means more family time with young Archie, 4, who gets to enjoy nighttime with his parents.
Martino prepares the wide range of pastas, lasagne, cannelloni and other delights in the preparation area where walk-in customers can see the qualified chef at work.
He learnt his trade in Italy where he combined regular school, then at night attended culinary school to qualify as a chef.
The pair come from the town of Perugia, which is two hours north of Rome and south of Florence.
Martino’s work ethic as a teenager working and studying is to be admired.
“It was six days a week and night work as well,” he said.
“Then I worked an extra year.”
Sofia and Martino have been married for six years but together for at least another ten years and live locally on 10 acres on which they grow some produce used in their business.
The range of pasta and pasta sauces is extensive, and all the ingredients are there for a traditional fresh genuine Italian meal at home after some simple preparation.
It has been described as “Squisito and delizioso” which in our language means exquisite and delicious.
Of course, vegetarian and gluten-free options are available.
Best of all the produce is fresh and where possible, locally sourced.
Bottega Crippa is open Wednesday to Friday, from 9am to 4pm, except on Friday when it closes at 5pm.
