In 1956 bar sport was opened by Raffaello "Ralph" Raffaelli, and became the first Italian coffee lounge in Leichhardt.
Ralph had migrated from northern Italy in 1951. He introduced 'espresso' coffee, with one of the first imported espresso machines (a two handled La Pavoni), and 'gelato' which was equally alien to 1950s Australia.
In 1957 it became more of an Italian type bar, serving snacks, drinks and hot beverages.
Today it is owned by the Napoliello family who have just celebrated its 50th anniversary with a revamp - which holding onto its original charm.
During the 1950s and 60s Caffe Sport was a favoured meeting place for migrants, particularly for young single workers.
Since the days of the APIA Club it has been the place to watch soccer matches (especially during the FIFA World Cup) and many Italians still patronize the cafe for a good 'chiacchiera' (chat)
