Lucio’s Italian Restaurant in Sydney is closing after 38 years serving Australia’s great artists

After 38 years of service, there are just some things restaurateur Lucio Galletto cannot let go.

He is keeping only a few artworks from among his eminent collection, which will be auctioned in March.

But there are also the rituals dating back to his childhood.

Before the restaurant opens, he walks through his Paddington establishment with a hot pan wafting the scent of burnt garlic infused with oil.

“To keep evil spirits out of the restaurant,” Lucio explained.

“It’s very special.

“Also the aroma of the garlic, by the time people come in, it’s very inviting.”

A sell-out final night

Lucio’s Italian Restaurant will welcome its last customers on Saturday.

When the…