Cortina 64 Story
Cortina 64 is more than a restaurant — it’s a legacy, a labour of love, and a proud part of Sudbury’s culinary story.
It all began in 1947, when a 16-year-old Tony Masotti arrived in Sudbury from Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, with nothing but a quarter in his pocket and a dream in his heart. Like many immigrants of his generation, Tony found work underground at Inco, where he toiled for 25 years before trading his helmet for a pizza peel. In 1964, he opened the first Cortina Pizza on Shaughnessy Street, guided by the flavors of his homeland and a simple motto: “Our business is built on quality.”
Tony’s meatball sandwiches and kitchen sinks quickly became weekend staples in households across the city. By the mid-1980s, Cortina had grown into a Northern Ontario institution with over 20 locations. But rapid expansion came at a cost. As quality slipped and the vision blurred, the business faltered. In 1997, Tony passed the torch to Daren Kirkwood, a local entrepreneur who was determined to restore Cortina to its roots.
Daren’s strategy wasn’t growth — it was focus. He honed in on the humble Barrydowne and Hawthorne location, turning it into a beloved neighbourhood staple. For over 20 years, Cortina thrived once again through loyal takeout customers, late-night cravings, and unforgettable family meals.
In 2024, the Barrydowne location faced an unexpected setback when the property was sold, forcing a new chapter. Rather than seeing it as an ending, Daren and his son Troy saw an opportunity — a chance to evolve.
Today, Cortina 64 at 854 Notre Dame marks the next step in our journey. A full-service restaurant with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, a full bar, classic Italian art and décor, and room for 132 guests, Cortina 64 is a celebration of everything that has made this name special for over 60 years.
We’re here to serve the same authentic recipes that built this brand, introduce new flavours for a new generation, and offer a space where people can enjoy good food, good company, and timeless memories — just like Tony would’ve wanted.
Welcome to Cortina 64 — where tradition meets today.
