Zig Zag Motel's Frankie's restaurant is bringing a slice of Italy to Lithgow

Zig Zag Motel's former Switchback Restaurant is back from Covid-lockdown with a new look and a new name.

The family owned business has gone through a number of renovations and extensions over 20 years and its latest restaurant transformation is known as 'Frankie's'.

Zig Zag Motel assistant director Genna Inzitari Davis said the restaurant name was inspired after her grandfather Francesco (Frank) Inzitari.

Frank came to Australia when he was 20 years old in search of a better life in 1951, according to Mrs Inzitari Davis.

"He worked extremely hard as a new migrant, whilst supporting his family back in Italy and as the years passed, his brothers followed him, as did my Nonna," she said.

In 1957 Frank moved his family to Lithgow and opened a fruit shop and wholesale business.

"It was the best fruit shop in town," Mrs Inzitari Davis said.

She said her grandfather was incredibly hard working and earned the respect from locals.

"He was the bravest and kindest soul. He taught us everything we know about business and we miss him dearly," she said.

Mrs Inzitari Davis said her grandfather and his kids then pursued a new venture when they purchased the Grand Central Hotel in 1985.

"This was our family's introduction into the hospitality industry and the first time Lithgow could experience 'real' Italian hospitality," she said.

With easing coronavirus restriction, Frankie's is set to open on Wednesday, June 24.

Mrs Inzitari Davis said she was excited to offer the town something new and exciting.

"We wanted to create a restaurant that is homely and inviting."

She said people could expect to experience modern Italian cooking with inspiration coming from the south of Italy.

"We're a proud Italian family and we have an excellent Italian Chef in Frank Pantano - it was only fitting that we offer an Italian restaurant and bar.

"In our new cocktail lounge we'll be offering Peroni tap beer, local and European wines and fun cocktails," she said.

Mrs Inzitari Davis said renovations were done when the restaurant was forced to close its doors due to the Covid restrictions.

"We took the time to renovate our restaurant slowly during the Covid lockdown period.

"We were so thankful to the town for being so supportive with our takeaway lunch and dinner offerings during that time," she said.

She also assured restaurant guests that Covid-safe guidelines would be in place.

Restaurant bookings are essential and can be made by phoning the motel on 6352 2477.

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