Food lovers in Perth's north-east have been left devastated as family-run restaurant Amaretto's in Ellenbrook announced it will close its doors after more than a decade of service. Located on Ellen Stirling Parade, the European-inspired eatery has been a beloved local fixture since it first opened in 2015.
Community favourite to shut
Amaretto's, which describes itself online as the perfect place to “share good food and great times with your loved ones,” has been a popular choice for celebrations over the years. The restaurant shocked regulars on Monday by posting a Love Actually-inspired video on social media to announce the closure.
“If you’ve ever walked through our doors, shared a drink, or made a memory here, this is for you,” the staff began in the video. “After 10 incredible years, Amaretto’s will be closing its doors — it’s not an easy decision, but one made with care and pride.”
The video went on to say: “We’re choosing to finish on a high — with full hearts, and so much gratitude. To our team, past and present: you are everything. To our community, you made us what we are: a hidden gem, a local favourite, a place full of love … let’s finish strong together.” The two-minute clip ended with two staff members downing a pint together in tribute to the venue.
Lease issues blamed
Owner Naomi Mayne told PerthNow the closure was due to leasing problems at the Ellenbrook Central shopping complex. “Our closure comes following a decision by our landlord not to continue our tenancy as part of a broader change in direction for the centre,” she said. “While we respect that commercial decisions are made for many reasons, it is an outcome we do not fully understand or agree with as a small independent business that has poured so much into the local community over the past decade.”
Mayne added: “For now, our focus is on finishing this chapter the best way we know how — with great food, great service, and giving our customers a chance to enjoy Amaretto’s a few more times before we close our doors. As for the future, we are taking some time to process everything and explore what comes next.”
Community heartbreak
The announcement video quickly gained traction among the Ellenbrook community, with regulars expressing their shock and sadness. “This is so sad to hear, another fabulous family restaurant gone,” one diner said. “Really can’t believe this — so many memories made here,” another upset local wrote. “It won’t be the same in Ellenbrook without you,” someone else added.
Amaretto's will close its doors for the last time on June 30, with regulars encouraged to visit for one final meal. The Ellenbrook eatery is the latest in a string of Perth restaurants to shut in recent months. Brunch hotspot Dux Restaurant announced its Como venue would close last week due to increased rent, just days after Swanbourne burger joint Upperhand Burgers closed permanently. Fremantle’s Young George bar and restaurant shut in April after a “difficult few years,” and Wellington Street restaurant Fleur also closed after six years serving the community.
