Local restaurateur Karmenu Bianco, well-known for the years spent running Gabriel Terrazza in Marsascala, has passed away.

Maltese Tenor Joseph Calleja shared the news on Friday morning, saying:

“Uncle Karmenu you were always honest to a fault and entirely devoted to your family, your own and extended. An enfant terrible and bon vivant, you still managed to work round the clock. One of the wittiest men I’ve ever known, your repartee will be sorely missed.”

Karmenu ran the restaurant with his brother Mario, and were often cited as being an integral part of the Grabiel dining experience.