Victor Contini, the co-owner of Contini Restaurant Group, has been recognised by the Italian state with the prestigious title of Cavaliere dell’Ordine della Stella d’Italia – the Knight of the Order of the Star of Italy – for his significant contributions to hospitality, sustainability and showcasing Italian culture in Scotland.
This national accolade comes the same year as the family-run restaurant celebrates its 20th anniversary, further solidifying its status as a culinary institution in Edinburgh.
The Order of the Star of Italy recognises both Italians living abroad and foreign nationals who have promoted friendly relations and cooperation between Italy and other countries. The honour was bestowed upon Contini by the Consul General of Italy in Edinburgh, Veronica Ferrucci.
Contini said: “This is one of life’s unexpected gifts. It’s such a huge honour to be acknowledged for the work we have done at Contini George Street, taking from the values my family have passed down to me.
“Working in hospitality and sharing the wonderful produce and ingredients we have imported directly from Italy for over 20 years with our work in our Kitchen Garden, supported by all my bees as well, is a true labour of love.
“The recognition means so very much to me and my family at home and in our restaurants not only at Contini but The Scottish Cafe & Restaurant at National Gallery of Scotland and Cannonball Restaurant & Bar on the Royal Mile.”
Contini has over two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, having served as director and principal fresh food buyer in his grandfather’s family business for 15 years. In 2003, he co-founded Contini George Street with his wife Carina.
Since opening, that restaurant has become a beloved destination for locals and visitors and it’s known for its commitment to authenticity and exceptional Italian cuisine. It was recently recognised as an ‘Authentic Italian Restaurant’ by the Accademia della Cucina, receiving three ‘temples’—the highest accolade a newly accredited restaurant can achieve – and the only restaurant in Scotland to have this title.
The Continis have also opened The Scottish Cafe & Restaurant and Cannonball House, both of which celebrate local Scottish produce, not least from the Contini Kitchen Garden, which provides herbs, fruit and vegetables for the group’s three restaurants.
Known as ‘Mr. Culture’ in the business, Victor is a well-respected figure within the Scottish hospitality industry and is dedicated to ‘ensuring every guest leaves happier than when they arrived.’
