Imagine spotting a retired Formula 1 legend dining at a local Italian restaurant in the quiet suburbs of Perth on a random weeknight. It’s not just any celebrity—it’s Daniel Ricciardo, the Perth-born racing icon who’s swapped the fast lane for a slower pace. But here’s where it gets intriguing: what does a retired F1 star with Italian roots order when he’s back in his hometown? Let’s dive in.
Gustoso Italian restaurant at Floreat Forum had the honor of hosting Ricciardo and his family recently, sharing a candid photo on social media that quickly caught attention. The caption read, ‘Thank you, Daniel Ricciardo and the Ricciardo family, for dining with us tonight. It was a pleasure to have you, and we hope to see you again soon!’ Despite appearing a bit disheveled in the photo, Ricciardo was all smiles, clearly enjoying his evening.
According to staff member Elena, the racing legend was ‘absolutely lovely’ and ‘extremely happy’ with his meal. But what did he and his family order? And this is the part most people miss: it wasn’t just pizza or pasta. The Ricciardo family indulged in a mix of hearty Italian classics, including the Scallopini Zingara—a tender meat dish served with a white wine sauce, roast potatoes, and vegetables—alongside a sirloin steak and a Salsiccia pizza topped with Italian sausage, potato, capsicum, and red onion. Talk about a feast fit for a champion!
This wasn’t Ricciardo’s first rodeo with Italian cuisine, though. Born and raised in Perth, he has deep Italian roots—his father is from Sicily, and his mother is also of Italian descent. Elena revealed this was his first visit to Gustoso, but he’s already planning a return with his parents, who equally enjoyed their meals. But here’s the controversial part: could this be a subtle nod to his heritage, or just a craving for comfort food? Let us know what you think in the comments!
For those curious about Gustoso’s menu, the restaurant specializes in Roman-style Pinsas—a fermented, oval-shaped twist on traditional pizza. It’s a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their Italian dining experience.
Beyond his culinary adventures, Ricciardo has been keeping busy post-retirement. As a global ambassador for Ford Racing and the face of his lifestyle brand, Enchante, he’s proving there’s life beyond the racetrack. How long will he stay in Perth? That remains a mystery, but one thing’s for sure—he’s making the most of his time here.
Now, here’s a thought-provoking question for you: With Ricciardo’s Italian heritage and his choice of a traditional Italian meal, do you think retired athletes gravitate toward comfort food from their roots? Or is it just a coincidence? Share your thoughts below—we’d love to hear your take!
