The crew behind the iconic Gemelli Italian empire have just opened their sixth restaurant, and it’s a nostalgic return to their neighbourhood-style Italian trattoria roots.
Named for the very first food truck twins Alec and James Carney (along with older brother Paul) launched back in 2016, is bringing Gemelli’s signature handmade Italian fare to Carrara, with a warm, family-friendly vibe.
The inspiration for the Papa Rolly’s name goes back even further than that food truck, to the team’s late great-grandfather, Papa Rolando. Leaning into a relaxed, nostalgic Italian vibe, you can expect the handmade, authentic fare Gemelli’s is known for dished up in a neighbourhood setting—think red-and-white tablecloths, and a space that feels more like a home than a restaurant.
Alec and James explained why they felt drawn to Carrara, saying “We feel our company ethics of growing up cooking with mum resonates well in a community location and we want to bring that vibe to Carrara like we did with Roy’s By Gemelli.”
“Carrara has always had a great local community, and we wanted to create a spot that felt like home, a place where families, friends, and locals could come together over great food without having to travel too far.”
So what’s on the menu? Many of their Gemelli-style classics star on the homestyle-inspired Italian menu, with emphasis on wood-fired pizza and handmade pastas. The Gemelli crew know not to change a good thing that has been perfected over centuries, except with fresh, quality produce of course, and this ethos is showcased throughout the menu.
The Bella Donna pizza with San Marzano tomato, double mozzarella, provolone cheese and New York pepperoni is set to be a crowd favourite, as is the Rigatoni Roy’s—the most popular pasta at Roy’s by Gemelli—with chicken breast, mushrooms, avocado, cherry tomatoes and Napoli sauce.
We can’t go past the Papas prawns; garlicky tiger prawns with crumbled feta and housemade bread, and as hard as it may be, save room for the housemade traditional tiramisu on the succinct dessert menu.
Browse the tempting selection of cocktails including Italian classics, non-alcoholic drinks and Papa’s signature creations. We’ve got our eyes set on the Venetian Fizz with gin, peach, lemon, Aperol and a pinch of Prosecco. Italian and Australian drops take centre stage on the wine list, or for those who prefer to bring their own bottle, you can also BYO with a $10 corkage fee.
Papa Rolly’s brings something special to Carrara with a dedicated Gelato Gemelli bar, featuring twelve of their latest gelato creations, including flavours like pistachio, piccolino, and tiramisu. The separate gelato bar offers the perfect opportunity to dig into a single scoop or take home a tub to enjoy alongside your takeaway pizza. The 120sqm venue comfortably seats 80 guests and is perfect for private functions, with takeaway also playing a key role in the offering.
“Bringing our handmade Italian food to a new audience is always exciting,” said Alec and James, “but Papa Rolly’s is extra special because it’s been years in the making.”
“From the food truck days to now having a permanent home for the concept (and the Papa Rolly's brand), it’s a full-circle moment. We’re also excited about the energy of the space. It’s casual, fun, and all about good times with good people.”
Papa Rolly’s isn’t just another restaurant—it’s a celebration of family, tradition, and sharing a meal with the people you love. And in Carrara, it’s ready to become the neighbourhood eatery we’ve all been waiting for.
THE DETAILS
What:
Where: 1/124 Pappas Way, Carrara
When: Open Tuesday to Sunday; 5pm to late
For more information, .
Image Credit: Papa Rolly's | Clayten Fowler Photography