If you read just about any article showcasing Melbourne's much-lauded coffee and cafe culture, chances are Pellegrini's Espresso Bar will feature.
The Italian cafe on Bourke St is a short walk to Bourke St Mall and the Victorian parliament. It opened in 1954, and since 1974 has been co-owned by Italian immigrant Sisto Malaspina and his business partner Nino Pangrazio.
The cafe was one of the first to have an espresso machine in Melbourne. While many of the businesses from that era have shut, replaced by convenience stores and bars, Pellegrini's – with its black and white checkered floor and red stools – has become a local institution. The neon sign is Heritage listed.
The cafe was Malaspina's life. In an interview with the Victorian government for a case study on the cafe, Malaspina said he was very hands-on.
"Forget about two-day weekends," he said. "My weekend lasts less than 24 hours. But I'm happy."
Friday's terror attack on Bourke St happened less than 100 metres from Pellegrini's. Malaspina was stabbed with a knife by Hassan Khalif Shire Ali, and died from his injuries. Two other men were also stabbed, and Shire Ali died after being shot by police.
Malaspina was named as the victim on Sunday, and tributes have been flowing since. Scores of bunches of flowers have been left outside the cafe, and people have been queueing to leave tributes and sign a condolence book.
Pellegrini's has been closed since Friday, and isn't expected to re-open until Tuesday.
A sign inside the window from staff reads: "Thank you for making us your staff members as part of your life. You always looked after us like family. Pellegrini's was your life. We will never forget all that you have done and given us all."
On social media, Russell Crowe and Bill Shorten were among those paying tribute.
Sisto, il mio cuore si spezza ... I’ve been going to Pellegrini’s since 1987. Never been to Melbourne without dropping in on my man Sisto . South Sydney stickers on the wall and caps on display. My sweet loyal friend, stabbed in the street by a mad man. Cosí triste. https://t.co/kfj32smdOz
Shocking, unreal and heartbreaking. I have been visiting Pellegrini’s since school. I just saw Sisto on Monday morning. He insisted I try a slice of his almond cake. He’s a Melbourne icon and a true gentleman. Impossible to imagine the devastation for his family and staff. https://t.co/CPziguJlpz
Heart broken that we lost such a great man of Pellegrini’s and a friend to so many (including me) Sisto Malaspina , to a senseless act of violence in Melbourne. Sisto thank you for the love you gave us all, you will be missed mate. R.I .P https://t.co/gjSAjgFV5I
Victorian premier Daniel Andrews said Malaspina's family had accepted the offer of a state funeral, which will be held next week.