Massimo Mele is one of my favourite people in food – genuine, honest, passionate and talented. I recently sat down to a hand-cooked lunch with him, in the home of Frank Camorra (I knoooow), to chat all things cooking. And Tasmania. And raising a family. And footy…
Tell us about your journey into food. What have been some of your career highlights?
I’ve been surrounded by good food from a very young age. However, I wasn’t inspired by the first fresh tomato I bit into. I was inspired to cook because I loved food and the culture of being surrounded by family whilst the food is being prepared.
As for career highlights, there have been so many! One that stands out is starting my own business, focussing on supporting local farmers and highlighting their hard work. This really has been something special as they are the real heroes of our industry.
You’re from Tasmania – what do you love about the Island?
Honestly, what’s not to love about Tasmania? We’ve got sensational produce, delicious wines and spirits, and the people are amazing. The great thing about Tassie is that you can sit back and enjoy it without all the hustle and bustle.
You’re a fan of Electrolux products – why do you choose to use them, instead of other brands on the market?
I think cooking appliances are a personal thing, just like how you go to your favourite hairdresser, favourite coffee shop, or even your favourite beach spot. Familiarity is assurance. Once I started using Electrolux induction and got used to using all the features, there really was no going back. A big clincher for me was the safety aspect; induction cooking only generates heat in the cookware, so the surfaces around the pot are cool to touch. Induction also allows for precision and a multitude of cooking zones that allow to cook any sized meal.
You’re Dad to a gorgeous little boy, and another bub on the way – what kind of role does food play in your home? A lot of parents struggle with getting their kids to eat a mixed and varied diet – do you have any tips for how to combat this?
Cooking for kids really can be the hardest gig ever! I thought food critics made me sweat, but my son takes it to another level… if there are any tips or tricks, someone needs to tell me. On any given day I will cook three different meals trying to work out what Max likes to eat. No two days are ever the same. What I’ve had to start doing lately is steam vegetables and mix them through chicken nuggets. I hate to admit it, but you have to do whatever works.
Do you have any tips on juggling the work/family/life balance?
My number one tip would be to make sure you’re with the right person to begin with because the juggle really is a team effort. Make time to plan and discuss with your partner. My wife and I never manage to achieve clarity on the fly, so we sit and plan everything out – fridge calendars also work a treat!
Where are your favourite places in Australia to travel to, eat/drink at, and enjoy?
Since we’re a small family, I enjoy heading to Noosa, even more so since our new addition! Noosa has the best family beach, an awesome surf club to have a beer and some fantastic restaurants. Locale is a favourite for family dinner as well as for date night, Aromas never goes amiss for breakfast and Betty’s Burgers is perfect for a treat on the beach. Noosa really is a fantastic family-friendly holiday spot. You can’t go past Melbourne for delicious food either. Coda is a favourite, as is Florentino Grill and pizza from 400 Gradi Brunswick.
To find out more about Massimo Mele, please visit his website here.
Image credits: Kristoffer Paulsen