ABOUT US
Buono began in 2020 as a dream come true for the three of us: Cinzia Buono, Fabio Magliano, and Daniele Ruffolo. After growing up in Italy and working in restaurants around the world, we met in Melbourne and decided to create a restaurant where our love for authentic Italian hospitality could truly shine.
For us, hospitality is about more than just good food and wine. It’s about creating a warm, welcoming space where people come together to share meaningful moments.
We never expected to find the perfect spot in Parkdale, as we’d originally searched closer to the city. But Parkdale’s relaxed atmosphere and vibrant community won us over, and we’re so glad we took a chance.
At Buono, we do things a little differently. We bring a modern, creative touch to traditional Italian cuisine, adding a delicious sense of adventure to classic dishes. With handcrafted cocktails, an extensive global wine list and friendly service, every detail is designed to give you a memorable dining experience.
In 2024, we opened our second restaurant, Sincero, in Malvern, taking our passion for creative Italian dining to new heights. But no matter how we grow, our hearts will always be with Buono.
THEre’s good italian, and then there’s buono.
CINZIA BUONO
Born in Switzerland to Italian parents, Cinzia discovered her passion for Italian hospitality during childhood trips to Italy.
Her adventurous spirit first brought her to Australia for a short trip at age 19, when she fell in love with the culture and lifestyle. In 2017, she made the bold decision to leave her office job in Switzerland, move to Australia and launch a new career in hospitality.
A fast learner, she quickly excelled at fine dining venues across Sydney, Broome, and Melbourne. Within just three years – and with the support of Fabio, her partner in business and in life – she was ready to strike out on her own.
Buono reflects not just Cinzia’s surname, but her creative vision for reimagined Italian cuisine and her unwavering dedication to warm, generous hospitality.
FABIO MAGLIANO
Fabio has hospitality in his blood. Growing up in a wine-producing family in a small village near Italy’s Amalfi Coast, he began working alongside his chef uncle at the age of 14 and soon earned his hospitality and sommelier qualifications.
Fabio honed his hospitality skills in acclaimed restaurants across Europe, including the Michelin-starred Locanda Locatelli in London.
After relocating to Melbourne in 2014, Fabio quickly made his mark on the city’s fine dining scene, earning his WSET Level 3 Award in Wines and managing renowned restaurants like Pastore.
Known for his deep knowledge of wine, Fabio takes great pride in curating the award-winning global wine list and handcrafted cocktail menu at Buono. He especially loves introducing guests to rare and aged wines and helping them to explore unexpected, exciting pairings.
DANIELE RUFFOLO
Born and raised in Milan to southern Italian parents, chef Daniele’s cuisine blends northern and southern Italian influences. His love for cooking began as a child, helping his mother make traditional homemade pasta on the first Sunday of each month.
After earning his chef qualifications and gaining early experience in Italy, Daniele moved to Melbourne in 2017. There, the abundance of fresh, high-quality produce sparked his passion for reimagining classic Italian dishes with a touch of adventure.
Daniele met Cinzia and Fabio while working together in Melbourne, and was delighted to join them for the opening of Buono in 2020. Now Buono’s head chef, Daniele has been instrumental in shaping the restaurant’s culinary identity while continuing to put a piece of his heart into every dish.