Australian radio broadcaster John Laws, known for his influential talkback radio career, passed away on November 9, 2025, at the age of 94. Laws was a regular at Otto Ristorante in Woolloomooloo for nearly 25 years, where he had a table permanently reserved for him—table 53.
Graham Ackling, the group general manager of Fink, the hospitality group behind Otto, recounted Laws’ routine, stating, “If he was in town, he would be at Otto for lunch.” This dedication to the restaurant was not simply due to its proximity to his luxury apartment on the Finger Wharf but stemmed from a deep affection for the establishment. Ackling noted that Laws would dine at the restaurant almost every day it was open, often opting for either an indoor or outdoor table based on the weather.
Laws’ connection to Otto extended beyond that of a patron. Between 2002 and 2006, he briefly held a majority stake in the restaurant alongside friend and property developer Lang Walker. The partnership began when Laws expressed interest in acquiring the venue after hearing that founder Maurice Terzini was leaving. “Wouldn’t it be good fun to get involved, seeing as we spend so much time there?” he reportedly said. However, after four challenging years characterized by staff departures and customer turnover, they sold the restaurant to its current owner, Leon Fink.
As a prominent figure in Sydney’s dining scene, Laws contributed to Otto’s reputation as a social hotspot. His wife, Caroline Laws, who passed away in 2020, often accompanied him, though he was frequently joined by media colleagues and celebrities, including renowned entertainers like Neil Diamond and John Williamson. Ackling remarked on Laws’ approachable nature, stating he was generous with his time, often engaging with fans for photos and autographs.
Notably, Laws was not one to shy away from conflict. He famously confronted his radio rivals, Darren Hinch and Bob Rogers, while they were dining nearby, declaring, “You are the two most despicable c—s I’ve ever met in this business,” according to Rogers. Ackling commented that such incidents were exceptions to Laws’ generally generous demeanor, highlighting that he was known for his good tips and kindness towards staff.
Following the passing of this iconic broadcaster, Otto Ristorante has opened bookings for table 53 for the first time in 25 years. This table, once a symbol of Laws’ presence, will now carry the memories of a man who made a lasting impact on both radio and the dining culture of Sydney.
