Roma Cucina sells

A strip of buildings that house Italian restaurant Roma Cucina in Fremantle’s High Street has sold for $3.5 million, with the deal marking the first time the historic venue has changed hands in 45 years.

High Street Mena Pty Ptd bought 9 to 19 High Street, which includes Roma Cucina restaurant, offices and retail spaces, in an off-market deal negotiated by LJ Hooker Commercial Perth.

The venue has been operating since 1954 as Roma Restaurant, and Frank and Nella Abrugiato bought the site 1974.

The restaurant was seen as an institution, attracting former Prime Minister Bob Hawke, music sensation David Bowie and a steady stream of loyal locals.

In 2006, the restaurant closed and operated as Villa Roma, when Nunzio Gumina took on its lease.

It reopened as Roma Cucina in June 2016 when Frank and Nella Abrugiato’s daughter Luciana Abrugiato-Dunn and her husband Terry Dunn took it over.

Selling agent Brian Neo said the property was sold to local investors who wanted to continue the restaurant’s legacy.

“We are seeing strong interest in the harbour city and feel there is a strong resurgence in local residential demand as well as commercial and retail investments,” he said.

LJ Hooker Commercial Perth recently brokered the sale of Fremantle’s technical college for $3.55 million for the state government and is marketing 40 Mews Road, Fremantle which houses Little Creatures.