A Long Lunch at Montsalvat: Welcoming Casa Marrazzo to Australia in Bruno Style
At Bruno 1956, we believe that food is more than just sustenance, it is culture, connection, memory, and art. This belief was brought to life in spectacular fashion with the Australian launch of Casa Marrazzo 1934, a brand rooted in the soil of Campania and grown through generations of passion.
After three months of planning, styling, and execution, our team, led by the incredible Amelia Antonello and Caterina Mandaliti, delivered an experience that was anything but ordinary. We didn’t want another food launch. We wanted to create something that felt different. Something that would evoke emotion, spark curiosity, and celebrate the integrity of ingredients.
The Setting: Montsalvat, Eltham
We chose Montsalvat, Australia’s oldest continuous artist community, as the backdrop for this special day. Established in 1934, its historic stone walls and lush gardens provided the perfect canvas for our vision. On Tuesday, 21 October, guests were welcomed into a space transformed into a living exhibition, a curated journey through Casa Marrazzo’s world.
The Experience: Art, Emotion, and Taste
The day began in Montsalvat’s historic chapel, where we introduced the Marrazzo family; Teresa, Gerardo, and Gaetano who travelled from Italy to join us. Their presence added depth and authenticity to the celebration, reminding us that behind every product is a story worth telling.
Guests then explored an art installation showcasing Casa Marrazzo’s range, blending photography, design, and storytelling. This immersive experience set the tone for what was to come: a long table family-style lunch under cascading wisteria, where every detail was designed to evoke feeling.
The Menu: A Tribute to the San Marzano Tomato
Our chef team, Kristian Ruggeri and Beppe Iodice, crafted a five course degustation that celebrated the San Marzano tomato in its purest form. Dishes included:
- Two tomato tartare (no meat)
- Savoury tomato baba
- Porchetta bites with yellow tomato reduction
- Tiramisu with San Marzano tomato jam
Each dish was a testament to the power of minimal ingredients and thoughtful execution.
Gratitude and Vision
We could not be prouder of the team we have created and continue to create at Bruno Fine Foods. A team that understands, that brings ideas to life, and that shares a clear direction: to be different and provide experiences not just through food and beverage, but around it.
Grazie mille to everyone who joined us for this unforgettable day. Here’s to continuing to bring Italy’s most authentic stories to life, one experience at a time.
