There will be much coffee and a few tears as the cafe co-owned by terror victim Sisto Malaspina, reopens in Melbourne.
Four days after the 74-year-old was stabbed to death just a few hundred metres from Pellegrini's Espresso Bar, the city institution will reopen its doors on Tuesday.
"In honour of dad's memory the wonderful staff at Pellegrini's are determined to continue his legacy with the same passion," Mr Malaspina's family said in a statement.
Relatives won't attend on Tuesday but there are expected to be some special guests, including the possibility of Prime Minister Scott Morrison who has indicated a desire to pay his respects.
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews said he supports the idea of a more permanent memorial for Sisto Sisto Malaspina. Source: AAP
Mr Malaspina was killed and two other men were injured when when 30-year-old Hassan Khalif Shire Ali drove a burning ute into the city and launched a knife attack on Friday.
The restaurateur died in the street while police shot Shire Ali who died later in hospital.
A 24-year-old security guard who was also stabbed during the attack has been released from Royal Melbourne Hospital.
Mr Malaspina had co-owned Pellegrini's since 1974 and both man and venue had become icons, the former with a "flamboyant personality" as remembered by his family.
State funeral
The Malaspina family agreed to a state funeral for the beloved Melbourne restaurateur, less than a day after Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews made the offer.
"Sisto Malaspina was a Victorian icon, known and loved by us all," Mr Andrews tweeted.
"I spoke to his family again this morning, and they have accepted my offer of a state funeral next week, with more details to come.
"Until then, our love and thoughts remain with Sisto's family."
Mourners pay their respects to Sisto Malaspina, co-owner of Pellegrini's Espresso Bar. Source: AAP
Ideas are being considered for a lasting tribute to Mr Malaspina, 74, including renaming the laneway next to Pellegrini's Espresso Bar, which he co-owned.
"I know there's been a bit of talk about renaming the lane, renaming Crossley Lane, I think that's a fantastic idea and I would fully support that," Mr Andrews told reporters.
The family of Mr Malaspina have released a statement saying the flowers will be donated to nursing homes and hospitals to "brighten-up other’s lives".
"We would like to thank Dad's friends, customers, and all the wonderful people that have come forward to pay their respects and show their love and support," the statement said.
"We are deeply moved by all the flowers, gifts and condolences.
"To the people of Melbourne, your heartfelt tributes have shown us why our Dad loved this great city so much."
The terrorist attack comes ahead of a state election on November 24.
Premier Andrews said he is focussed on ensuring the safety of residents, not the politics of using fear to win votes.
He said whether the attack sways voters at the ballot box is up to them.
"I'm unconcerned about the politics of these matters, that's not my job," he told reporters on Monday.
His job was to make sure security agencies were working together "and they are" and give Victoria Police the resources they need.
