The beloved “nonna” who founded one of Edinburgh’s most popular restaurants has died aged 76.
Mrs Giacinta Crolla – affectionately known as “Nonna Dina” – died on 27 September, just two days after her birthday.
Together with her husband Alberto, Mrs Crolla founded popular Italian eatery Vittoria on the Walk in Leith back in 1970, which later developed into the successful Vittoria Group.
The hospitality group now has a portfolio of well-known dining spots in the capital, including Vittoria on the Bridge on George IV Bridge, Taste of Italy near the Edinburgh Playhouse and Bertie’s Proper Fish & Chips on Victoria Street.
In a statement on social media last night, the family said: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the passing of our beloved Nonna Dina who left us on 27.09.26
“Nonna Dina, along with her husband Alberto, founded Vittoria in 1970. Their hard work and sacrifice made The Vittoria Group what it is today.
“Nonna was so much more than a Nonna to our family, she was a Nonna to everybody, and a friend to everybody, she will be deeply missed.
“A Requiem Mass will be held at St Mary’s RC Cathedral on Thursday 15th October 2026 at 10:00am. Everyone is welcome to attend.
“Please note that on Thursday 15th October, the restaurants will open from 12pm.
“We would like to thank everyone for their love, support and kind messages during this difficult time.
“Rest peacefully, Nonna. Forever loved, forever missed.”
Tributes from locals and regulars both past and present have since poured in on social media following the news.
One person said: “I started my first job round the corner from the original Vittoria in 1986 in the Multicultural Education Centre in Leith Walk Primary. Vittoria’s was always a go-to.
“I moved back home to Galloway in 2004 but always brought our family to Vittoria’s when visiting Edinburgh as it was like visiting family. May Nonna Dina rest in peace – reunited with Alberto.
“The end of an era, but what a legacy they leave. Heartfelt condolences to the whole family.”
Another replied: “So sorry to hear this very sad news. I lived just around the corner from Vittoria on Leith Walk for three years, and I have such warm and happy memories of those times.
“Vittoria’s is a truly wonderful restaurant, but even more than that, she was a wonderful lady who made you feel like part of the family.”
A third added: “I lived in Montgomery Street from 1992-2007 and frequently visited Vittoria with my friends and family, always a friendly welcome and delicious food,sending condolences to all the Crolla and Vittoria family.”
A fourth wrote: “So sad – Dina was a good friend to me and I spent many a happy afternoon in her company, putting the world to rights over a coffee in the sunshine. Lovely lady, condolences to all the family.”
Mrs Crolla was predeceased by her husband Alberto, who died in 2021.
