Café D'Jaconelli, a Glasgow institution on Maryhill Road that first opened its doors in 1924, once saw Sir Billy Connolly escorted out by the late owner Mario Jaconelli due to his late-night drunken antics.
Before achieving global fame, the 83-year-old Scots comedian was a regular customer at the iconic café, often welcomed by Mario and his wife Betty. The café is known for its red leather booths, Willy Wonka-style sweet counter, and affordable prices, including a full Scots breakfast for £6.50.
Connolly's Fondness for Gelato
Sir Billy was particularly fond of the café's famous gelato recipe, with the owners reportedly preparing a special recipe for him whenever he visited. However, his visits did not always go smoothly. Speaking to the Glasgow Times in 2007, Mario Jaconelli revealed that he had to escort the comic out several times due to his late-night antics, though he reassured that Connolly was lively but never aggressive.
Famous Appearances
Café D'Jaconelli has also appeared in several films, including the 1996 film Trainspotting, where Renton and Spud shared a milkshake before a job interview, and in Tutti Frutti starring the late Robbie Coltrane.
History of the Café
Mario's parents, Sante Jaconelli and Teresa Arcari, opened the café in 1924. Sante passed away in 1930, and Teresa ran the business while raising four children. Mario later took over the family business and met his wife Betty Dunn inside the café. The pair raised five children together. Betty passed away in 2012, and Mario died in 2017 at the age of 93.
Sir Billy Connolly did not publicly issue a formal statement or interview when his friend died. However, current owners James Evans and his wife Sharon, who took over the business in 1992, told the Guardian that when Connolly returned to the area, he would meet up with his old pal. Evans recalled one occasion: "I phoned Mario and he came in here and they gave each other a big cuddle."
Café D'Jaconelli at 570 Maryhill Road remains a Glasgow institution and is well worth a visit.
