Photos by Stephanie Duncan
Many in Noblesville know Joelcir Antunes as the friendly and inviting owner of Matteo’s Ristorante Italiano. But his path to owning the beloved eatery is one marked by dedication, resilience and heart.
Antunes grew up in a small rural town in southern Brazil, a region with strong Italian roots. Alongside his sisters, he learned to cook traditional Italian dishes with his mother—a foundation that shaped his future.
“Everything I am today I devote to my family,” he said. “When my team needs help, I go, and I cook like everybody else.” That dedication to family drives his professional life, too. “The number one thing I brought from home is honesty. I do not wanna lose that.”
Antunes is a near-constant presence at Matteo’s, often filling in as needed.
“I work as a server, as a busser, as a bartender. I am here every day. Guests come in and ask, ‘Who is that crazy guy?’ That must be the owner,” he said, laughing.
His guiding principle is simple: “Love what you do.” That mindset informs his leadership, his service and the food Matteo’s is known for.
“Because I love what I do, whatever I am doing, I do with pleasure.”
Antunes’s first experience in a restaurant came at age 18—working, not dining. He left his family’s farm to work at a Brazilian steakhouse in São Paulo, starting as a dishwasher and eventually becoming a manager.
“Growing up, I had never been to a restaurant,” he said.
His career took him to Chicago and later Indianapolis to help launch new locations. In 2015, the chance to buy a restaurant of his own presented itself—and he took it.
“Coming from a poor family, I was happy to buy a restaurant. It was a big deal,” he said. He credits his success to mentors, hard work and his values.
“Do things right the first time, always be honest and surround yourself with the right people.”
Antunes’s wife, Mislene, now contributes delectable desserts to the menu. Their daughter, Mylena, joined the family business as a teen and, even though she now works at a law firm, continues to support the restaurant’s marketing and cocktail development.
To stay connected to his Italian roots, Antunes leads annual group trips to Italy. These excursions help him discover new recipes and deepen family bonds. The next trip is planned for October, with Venice on the itinerary.
Matteo’s offers more than just dinner. The restaurant regularly hosts wine dinners, featuring a four-course meal with wine pairings and live entertainment. In the summer, the events are held outdoors in the restaurant’s adjacent alley, offering guests a cozy, memorable experience.
Matteo’s Ristorante Italiano is located at 40 N. Ninth St. in Noblesville. For reservations, call 317-774-9771. Visit matteosindy.com or follow the restaurant on social media for updates on catering, carry-out and upcoming events.
Comments 1
I have worked for Joelcir for 8 years, he is the real deal. kind, honest, hard working and caring.. I cannot say enough about this man.. he truly cares about his customers and his employees.. if you have never met him stop by Matteo’s and say hello – you will be glad you did..