Farewell to Antonio – 23 Remarkable Years at English’s

After 23 years of dedicated service, laughter, friendship, and world-class wine recommendations, we’re saying a heartfelt arrivederci to Antonio, a much-loved member of the English’s family.

Antonio first joined English’s in 2002, making the move from Al Forno, just across the square. At the time, his sons Lorenzo and Emilio were just 7 and 5 years old, and his role at English’s allowed him to be present for school runs and family life while his wife worked in London. “It meant a lot to us,” Antonio recalls.

 

In the years since, Antonio has become a cherished part of the restaurant’s fabric – known not just for his deep knowledge of wine and his warmth with customers, but for the joy and dedication he’s brought to the job every single day.

“I’ve met so many interesting people while working here and have made lifelong friendships with colleagues and customers alike.”

From serving loyal regulars like Mr Wright – who’s been dining with us for 50 years – to forming close friendships with customers like Sean Wilson and his wife Jilly, Antonio’s warmth has left a lasting mark on the English’s community. He’s welcomed everyone with the same grace, from first-time diners to international stars.

Over the years, he’s had memorable encounters with icons like Judi Dench, David Gilmour, Jarvis Cocker, Roger Daltrey, and even the entire coaching team from Brighton & Hove Albion. Some left him starstruck. Others invited him to gigs and theatre performances. And some – like Dame Judi – even gave him a generous tip for sneaking her dog into the restaurant.

But perhaps one of Antonio’s greatest passions at English’s has been wine.

“Selecting wonderful wines from all over the world for our wine menu has been one of the aspects of working here that has given me the greatest satisfaction.”

He’s been instrumental in shaping English’s award-winning wine list, bringing in world-class bottles and introducing both staff and customers to the complex world of Italian wine with his trademark patience and expertise.

Simon Leigh-Jones, owner of English’s, shares:

“It’s been an absolute pleasure working with Antonio over all these years. Not only was he a complete professional, he taught us an enormous amount about wine – particularly the Italian wine industry, which I for one could never get the hang of before Antonio’s gentle coaching! He was instrumental in helping me develop our wine list, especially our Italian section.”

“Everyone – customers and staff alike – will miss Antonio enormously. I’m sure I can speak for all in wishing him all the very best for the future.
Grazie Antonio. I migliori auguri a te, Clare, e ai ragazzi.
Ciao.
Simon”

Antonio, we can’t thank you enough for the energy, knowledge, and kindness you’ve brought to English’s for over two decades. From everyone here – past and present – we wish you and your family all the best in whatever comes next.

You’ll always be part of the English’s story.

Grazie mille.