The heart of Carlton's Little Italy almost stopped beating when its last butcher announced his retirement. But, thankfully, a familiar name has stepped in to ensure the legacy of Donati’s Fine Meats lives on.
Updated January 19, 2026, first published January 19, 2026
For those who frequented Lygon Street, the news of Leo Donati's retirement from his namesake butcher shop, a beloved fixture since 1972, was met with concern. Would this mean the end of an era? The fear was that the last butcher shop in Carlton's Little Italy would vanish.
However, hope arrived in the form of Jamie Valmorbida, who has taken over the business. Valmorbida, whose family owns King & Godfree and other nearby businesses, plans to continue the tradition of providing customers with quality meats like pork sausages and veal.
"The shop's already thriving. My job is to protect that," Valmorbida stated. He also expressed his excitement about the brand's future potential while emphasizing the importance of maintaining the current success.
Donati's is renowned for more than just its excellent meat. It's an experience. The shop is famous for playing classical music, showcasing artwork honoring cows and pigs, displaying fresh flowers, and engaging in high-quality conversations that span current events, books, and composers.
Valmorbida will officially take over on January 30th and will work alongside Leo Donati's son, Marcello, during the transition. Most of the shop's unique features, including the art and Leo's playlists, will remain.
But here's where it gets controversial... The shop's current butcher, Sam Spagnuolo, with over 20 years of service, will remain. Mark Glenn, the executive chef from several Valmorbida venues, will oversee operations. Plans are in place to recruit a head butcher and build a team comprised of both current and former team members.
"It’s impossible to replace Leo and Marcello but creating a unique service experience is going to be a priority," Valmorbida said.
While Valmorbida remained tight-lipped about his specific plans for the shop's future, including new products, he mentioned that any changes would be implemented within six to twelve months.
"The beauty of Donati’s is what’s there. We’re not going to change the core, but we will try some things around the side," he added.
And this is the part most people miss... The sale originated from a casual conversation. Valmorbida, while purchasing a Christmas ham, was jokingly asked by Leo Donati if he'd consider buying the business. "I said: ‘You’ve planted the seed’ and it was genuine. From there, it moved really quickly.”
The two families have long been connected in Carlton's Lygon Street. The Valmorbida family has been associated with King & Godfree, a deli and continental grocer, since 1955. More recently, their business ventures have leaned towards hospitality, mirroring the trend in Lygon Street.
Their portfolio includes Johnny’s Green Room, Pidapipo gelato shops, and restaurants within King & Godfree, which has been closed since July 2024 for renovations and will reopen in stages, starting in February.
Leo Donati shared in a statement, "Jamie shares our values of quality, craft, and a long-term commitment to the Carlton neighbourhood. Marcello and I feel confident Donati’s is in the right hands as it moves into its next chapter."
Marcello Donati has been contacted for comment.
What are your thoughts on the future of Donati's? Do you think the new owner can successfully maintain the shop's unique character while also bringing in fresh ideas? Share your opinions in the comments below!
