The Russian billionaire Abramovich is having a hard time in Italy. Last year a restaurant in Forte dei Marmi told him he couldn't have dinner as they were full and now the "Bridge Sushi Bar" in Panarea - Sicily did the same thing.
Abramovich tried to book a table at the restaurant for around eight o'clock only to be told that they were fully booked and there was nothing they could do for him. The owner Angela Mascolo, a Neapolitan, is certainly no stranger to celebrities. The restaurant often has as guests Giorgio Armani, Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana.
To make things worse (or better according to your point of view), the owner freely admits that if she knew Mr. Abramovich better a solution might just be possible. As she told reporters "Oh dear, I have many friends. If, for example Carlo Rosella or Diego Della Valle (ed. known Italian businessmen) has called, we would have figured something out, as they are my friends. But I don't know Mr. Abramovich and I don't care how much money he has.".
The "Bridge Sushi Bar" has an aperitif session from eight thirty to ten every night, and only after ten does the actual dinner begins which takes many hours and finishes long after midnight.
Mr Abramovich, however, was not able to enjoy the aperitif of sushi, tempura and champagne. Angela Mascolo did leave a sliver of hope saying "If he really wants to come to my restaurant why doesn't he park his yacht in the port just in front here - this way I can clearly see him". And when asked if she is worried that the Russian billionaire might decide to get over the problem by just buying the place she laughs and says "I am not worried - I love the Bridge and it is simply not on sale".
