Il Camino has been a staple of Maldon’s High Street for two decades, but owner and chef Maurizio Lancioni is preparing to hang up his whites.
As he approaches his 70th birthday, Maurizio says “it’s time to go”.
He told the Standard: “I started cooking when I was nine years old, so I’ve been doing it for 60 years.
“I want to thank all our customers for their invaluable support over the years.”
The building dates back to 1485 and features authentic wooden beams throughout.
Homely – Il Camino has welcomed tens of thousands of diners over two decades. (Image: Ben Shahrabi)
“I bought the building because it reminded me of my grandmother’s house in Italy,” he said.
“It doesn’t look like a restaurant – it’s more like a home – so I wanted to recreate those memories of family meals.
“That’s why we’ve always had the door knocker, so people can be invited in.”
Seeing the old fireplace transported Maurizio back to his childhood, watching his little sister play with her toys, his grandfather sitting in a rocking chair and his grandmother “pottering around” in the kitchen.
Before opening Il Camino in early 2007, Maurizio ran three London wine bars and two other Essex restaurants.
He also owned the Courtyard in Chelmsford city centre and La Fontaine on New London Road, now called Olio.
My kitchen – the restaurant is adorned with artwork given to Maurizio by diners. (Image: Ben Shahrabi)
The restaurateur, who emigrated to the UK from Marche in eastern Italy 51 years ago, says tradition is key.
“Most of our dishes are family recipes,” he said.
“I grew up watching my mum and grandma cooking, so this is like their legacy.
“We stayed away from pizza and pasta as we wanted to specialise in meat and fish, which people liked because it’s different.”
Maurizio warned his children against following him into the restaurant trade.
“I told them that if they started catering, I wouldn’t talk to them,” he said.
“I didn’t see my wife for months at a time, which was very difficult.
“I don’t want my children to miss time with their families like I did.”
Instead, Maurizio taught his children to cook authentic Italian meals for their own families.
“It’s important to me that they learned to cook properly,” he said.
“We don’t eat pasta in the evening, and we only eat pizza with friends in a pizzeria – not a restaurant.”
Loyal – staff members like Angelica have worked for Maurizio for many years. (Image: Ben Shahrabi)
Far from just another business, Maurizio says his loyal customers have become extended family.
Maurizio goes the extra mile for special occasions, inflating more than 600 red and white balloons for Valentine’s Day and hosting New Year’s Eve feasts.
“We’ve always done a seven-course dinner on New Year’s Eve, but obviously not this year,” he said.
“A lot of people will miss it as it has become a family event.”
Romantic – the restaurant was filled with balloons every Valentine’s Day. (Image: Submitted)
As he prepares to bow out, Maurizio still has mixed feelings.
He said: “I’m really grateful for what I’ve achieved.
“As I get older, it takes me longer to recover after working all weekend, but I’m overwhelmed by customers’ gratitude.
“When plates come back clean, it’s a great feeling.”
Approaching his 70th birthday, Maurizio discussed his retirement with his family .
“My son said I’ve done so much in my life, it’s about time I relax,” he recalled.
After 15 months on the market, an investment firm bought the restaurant and the two-bedroom flat above it.
But as one family-run Italian restaurant closes, another is preparing to open.
Luigi’s will open in the former Prezzo restaurant on Maldon High Street this autumn, promising authentic Italian cuisine.
“It’s so important to maintain the authenticity and originality of the food,” Maurizio said.
“I wish them all the best.”
Historic – the 15th century building has been sold. (Image: Ben Shahrabi)
After retiring, Maurizio is looking forward to spending more time in Italy and taking a road trip with his wife and two dogs.
It is not yet known what will replace the restaurant.
Maldon High Street is also due to lose another retailer when TG Jones closes its town store on 9 October.
