At 78, Dino Caramel stands as the oldest restaurateur in town, but the family trattoria has now run its course. Among the reasons for the newly announced closure is a shortage of staff.
The News
After a full 55 years in business, the famous trattoria “Da Dino” will close its doors, marking the end of an era for local gastronomy. Dino Caramel, the owner and beating heart of the restaurant, has made the difficult decision to retire, citing health reasons, advanced age and an increasing difficulty in finding staff. On Doberdò Street in Fountains, the restaurant has seen generations of customers pass through (including many VIPs; below is Simona Ventura), attracting a loyal audience over the years. “I turned this restaurant into a landmark, “ says Dino, visibly moved by the amount of memories. “So much effort, but also so much satisfaction."
Despite the success and affluence the trattoria continues to enjoy, the real obstacle is the lack of staff. “Hiring has become impossible, no one can be found,” the innkeeper-patron explains to the Gazettino. “Even getting a cook on the team is becoming more and more complicated. How do you go on like this at 78 years old?" The latest blow recently came when two guys who work weekends were unable to show up for health reasons, forcing Dino, his wife and children to manage as many as 70 place settings on their own. "We can't take it anymore, ” he therefore admits with resignation.
The restaurant and land will be sold to the Pinarello Group, marking the end of an era for this enjoyable corner of Villorba. With the closing of the trattoria “Da Dino”, not only a physical place is lost, but a piece of culinary history that has been part of the daily lives of so many Trevisans.
