Proper is bringing Italian-American comfort food to the heart of Roncesvalles, in the space formerly occupied by La Cubana — and it comes from a genuinely unexpected source. Owner Michael Edwards spent more than 30 years as a business consultant before deciding, in 2025, that he was ready for something more tangible than selling ideas and opinions.
The 45-seat space blends elements of La Cubana’s old look — turquoise tile walls, Mexican ceramic talavera floors — with mid-century Italian design, including ’70s-style sconces sourced directly from Italy, velvet banquettes, marble tables, and warm mahogany panelling. Behind the menu is chef Julien Cawagas, whose résumé includes stints at Eataly, Bar Buca and Giulietta; he’s built a menu of generous mozza sticks, spicy rigatoni alla vodka, and meatballs smothered in red sauce. Cawagas says he initially worried Proper would be seen as “the bad guys” taking over a beloved neighbourhood spot — instead, the reception has been overwhelmingly warm.
Craving red-sauce Italian in a room with real history behind it? Proper is open now at 392 Roncesvalles Ave.