A new Netflix docu-series exploring the rise and fall of an upscale raw vegan restaurant in New York City features a colourful character that had viewers across Malta looking twice.

Clad in black and sporting a noticeable Maltese cross pendant, Anthony Caruana speaks about his personal relationship with Sarma Melngailis, who ran Pure Food and Wine Restaurant in the series ‘Bad Vegan: Fame. Fraud. Fugitives’.

The rough and tumble guy has a charming smile and oration style, and explains how he first locked eyes with Sarma’s dog Leon nine years prior when he was on the streets.

Next thing anyone knew, they two had become close, with Caruana even being invited to events and get-togethers at Melngailis’ home.

“I’ve known Sarma for nine years because Leon’s nine,” Caruana said, before getting emotional about his friend, even tearing up about her.

In the series, the rise and fall of Melngailis following her relationship with Anthony Strangis is revealed via access to close friends, family and employees. Interestingly, Caruana seems to enjoy a high level of trust, when the homeless man even telling the restaurantuer that he’s always be there to protect her.

“She put something into my heart that nobody else ever did. I can’t explain it, I just can’t explain it…” he trails off. “Don’t ask me to try.”