The Bitter Taste of Closure: Reflecting on Amaretto’s and the Changing Face of Local Dining
There’s something profoundly bittersweet about a beloved restaurant closing its doors. It’s not just about losing a place to eat; it’s about losing a piece of community, a space where memories are made, and connections are forged. The recent announcement of Amaretto’s in Ellenbrook shutting down after a decade is more than just a local news story—it’s a microcosm of broader trends in the hospitality industry, and it’s worth pausing to reflect on what it means.
A Decade of Love and Loss
Amaretto’s wasn’t just a restaurant; it was a cornerstone of Ellenbrook’s identity. From its European-inspired menu to its warm, family-run atmosphere, it embodied the kind of dining experience that feels increasingly rare in today’s fast-paced world. Personally, I think what makes this closure so poignant is the way it was announced—a heartfelt, Love Actually-inspired video that felt less like a goodbye and more like a thank-you note. It’s a reminder that behind every restaurant are real people, pouring their hearts into creating something special.
But here’s the thing: Amaretto’s isn’t closing because of a lack of love from its community. It’s closing because of leasing issues, a decision made by a landlord that feels, at best, impersonal and, at worst, shortsighted. This raises a deeper question: What happens when the commercial interests of property owners clash with the cultural fabric of a community? It’s a tension we’re seeing more and more, not just in Perth but globally.
The Bigger Picture: A Trend We Can’t Ignore
Amaretto’s isn’t an isolated case. In recent months, Perth has seen a string of restaurant closures—Dux in Como, Upperhand Burgers in Swanbourne, Young George in Fremantle, and Fleur in the CBD. Each closure has its own story, but there’s a common thread: rising rents, shifting consumer habits, and the relentless pressure on small businesses to adapt or die.
What many people don’t realize is that these closures aren’t just about losing a place to eat; they’re about losing a piece of a city’s soul. Restaurants like Amaretto’s are more than just businesses; they’re cultural institutions. They’re where we celebrate birthdays, mourn losses, and create the kind of shared experiences that bind communities together. When they disappear, something intangible is lost.
The Human Cost of Commercial Decisions
One thing that immediately stands out to me is the disconnect between the emotional impact of these closures and the cold, hard logic of commercial decisions. Owner Naomi Mayne’s statement about the landlord’s decision not to renew their lease is particularly telling. She notes that while they respect the decision, they don’t fully understand or agree with it. This highlights a broader issue: the power imbalance between small businesses and large property owners.
If you take a step back and think about it, this isn’t just about Amaretto’s or even Perth—it’s about the global trend of gentrification and the homogenization of urban spaces. Independent businesses are being pushed out in favor of chain stores and corporate interests, and the result is a loss of diversity and character. What this really suggests is that we need to rethink how we value and support local businesses, not just as economic entities but as vital parts of our social ecosystem.
What Comes Next?
Amaretto’s plans to close on June 30, and the outpouring of support from the Ellenbrook community is a testament to the impact it’s had. But what happens after the doors close? The staff’s video ends with a toast, a symbolic gesture of resilience and gratitude. It’s a reminder that even in the face of loss, there’s an opportunity to celebrate what was and look forward to what could be.
From my perspective, this is a moment for reflection—not just for Ellenbrook, but for all of us. How do we want our cities to look and feel? What role do local businesses play in shaping our communities? And what can we do to ensure that places like Amaretto’s aren’t just memories but models for the future?
A Final Thought
As I write this, I’m reminded of something a friend once said: ‘Restaurants are where life happens.’ And when they close, it’s not just the food we miss—it’s the laughter, the conversations, the sense of belonging. Amaretto’s may be closing its doors, but its legacy will live on in the hearts of those who loved it.
Personally, I think this is a call to action. Let’s not just mourn the loss of places like Amaretto’s; let’s celebrate them, support them, and fight to keep them alive. Because in the end, it’s not just about the food—it’s about the people, the stories, and the communities they bring together.
