Food Drink

COMING SOON: Aye Frank brings panini and coffee to popular corner

Childhood friends join forces to bring panini and podcast location, Aye Frank, to life.

Aye Frank is set to grace Grange Road with its presence bringing coffee and panini to the popular corner location. 

Brainchild of childhood friends, Frankie Dicerto and Matthew Laurito, Aye Frank will be bringing a delicious taste of their Italian heritage to the hearts and mouths of the community. 

Coming from Italian backgrounds, with an extensive list of varied hospitality experiences, that include Ruby Red Flamingo and Orso, the pair are ready to bring the flavours of their families to patrons. 

It all started in primary school when Matthew and Frankie shared a stick of salami from Frankie’s lunchbox (whether Frankie liked it or not) and they haven’t looked back.  

Co-owner Matthew Laurito says the Aye Frank project is a dream come true that has been over 20 years in the making.

“What started as a school yard friendship where we were sharing lunches has now led to the ability to open our own kitchen and share our lunch with others.”

“We’ve never done anything like this and navigating the unknown has been a massive process. We have been hands on from the get-go and it’s been an adventure.”

With 20 years of friendship behind Aye Frank, the project was certainly no small feat, but in the eyes of the pair, is all worth it.

The pair have been active in the process of transforming the space of previous southern fried hot chicken business, Buk Buk and a neighbouring laundromat, into a comforting and modern space for visitors. 

While the focus of Aye Frank is a great cup of coffee and a panini that seriously slaps, the pair have included a recording studio in their location.

Co-owner and hip hop artist Frankie Dicerto loves how the pair have been able to bring their love of vino, music and panini, to life.

“This project is an awesome combination of all the great loves of my life. It’s like my own box of chocolates with all the flavours that I like. It’s all about coffee, panini and recording.

“The space is a reflection of who we are as two good Italian boys and long term mates that have decided to pursue their dreams together.”

While the duo may be the new kids on the block but there is no doubt that they know a thing or two about great coffee and mouthwatering panini.

Follow Aye Frank and their progress HERE.

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