Say hello to Cello owner and namesake, Marcello Giliberto. The cafe is set to open at Southcity shopping centre in the coming days. Photo: Marguerite McKinnon.
After nearly three empty years, Wagga’s Southcity is about to get a new cafe — and it will be run by a barista named the Riverina’s best.
Marcello Giliberto, who hails from Fitzmaurice Street cafe and wine outlet Mr Lawrence, is opening “Cello” (pronounced like the instrument) as early as this week.
“Everyone knows me as ‘Cello’ in Wagga, so when I’ve got my uniform on and my shirt that says ‘Hello Cello’, I’ll be front of house and mainly making the coffees,” Marcello said.
With the glass front screened in blue plastic, locals have noticed movement and heard whispers that a Mr Lawrence cafe is finally on its way, after the previous Coffee Club closed in 2023.
Inside, Cello’s decor features relaxing earthy colours, wood tones and comfortable seating, designed to deliver quality without high prices.
“We’re looking at attracting families and kids — the before and after school run crowd — where they don’t have to break the bank to come in, enjoy a coffee or a toastie, and head out for the day,” Marcello said.
It’s a brave but natural step for Marcello, who moved from Melbourne to Wagga two years ago after marrying Wagga-born-and-bred Carlie, a much-loved teacher at Holy Trinity Primary School. Wanting to meet more people and become part of the community, Marcello entered the Riverina Barista Championships in 2024 and, to his surprise, won, earning the title of The Riverina’s Best Barista. Last year, he returned to the competition as a judge, and now 2026 will see his new venture at South City Shopping Centre.
Cello owner Marcello Giliberto, with his wife Carlie. Photo: Marguerite McKinnon.
Working at Mr Lawrence in Fitzmaurice Street with celebrated local chef Jamie Shepley, Marcello won the hearts of coffee-loving locals. With Mr Lawrence expanding to include a new restaurant and function/wedding venue, “Madame Elle”, the partnership is widening with Cello at Southcity.
“Once Madame Elle opens — the restaurant Jamie’s building — I’ll go back there for a bit to help him out, like he’s helping me with Cello,” Marcello said.
“I’ll make sure he’s got two feet on the ground, that it’s profitable, that people are coming through the door and the customer service is strong. Once I’ve helped with those processes and procedures, I’ll step away and focus on Cello long term,” he said.
When local hospitality experts help each other, the community wins. Cello will also be on the lookout for staff, with Marcello knowing that quality service will cement the brand.
“Essentially, you’re going to have your breakfast, brunch and light lunch,” Marcello said.
“You’ll have a full, proper cafe-style menu — eggs on toast, pancakes, waffles, a burrito bowl, a healthy-style breakfast board similar to chia bowls, breads and fresh juice — like a powerhouse trio to start your day — and things like chicken schnitzel for lunch,” he said.
As much as possible, Cello will source from local suppliers to support the regional economy, including Southcity Butcher next door, without directly competing, to further boost local business. Other local businesses have helped with the fit-out, including Riverina Home Centre, which completed the cabinetry and flooring.
“We’re just waiting on our compliance certificate from Wagga Wagga City Council, and we’re finishing the fit-out now. They’ll come and inspect it to make sure it satisfies all the codes, like fire safety and food compliance, which we’re already across. Hopefully we’ll get the all-clear and can open the doors,” Marcello said.
While the hours will be long, Marcello’s wife Carlie is fully supportive — with the added bonus of a good coffee on the way to work.
“We live in Bourkelands and, to get a decent coffee, you have to go all the way into town, as there’s nothing on this side. So this will be great — I can stop in on the way to school,” Carlie said.
Cello, located at the South City shopping centre, will be open seven days a week, Monday through to Sunday, from 6:30 am to 4 pm, except on public holidays. Keep up to date with them via their website, Facebook page and Instagram.
