Celebrity chef Massimo Mele will head up the culinary team as culinary director at a new hotel in the heart of Hobart.
A native Tasmanian with an international reputation and Italian roots, Mele will aim to bring his signature Italian warmth with a local Tasmanian twist to Parliament Square when the restaurant opens early next year.
Born in Tasmania and raised in Naples, Mele's career started at his parents' restaurant in Glenorchy and as an apprentice at Donovan's Restaurant in St Kilda.
He opened Mud Bar in Launceston, travelled widely and then worked at Hugo's Group and La Scala on Jersey back in Australia before overseeing the food at The Silos Hotel in Launceston.
“My first ever kitchen job was at my parent's restaurant and after years spent working in kitchens around the world it feels incredible to return to my roots and be involved in creating something special here in Hobart.
"Being back in Tasmania for the past couple of years with my family has given me the opportunity to go back to basics and reconnect with the land, educating myself and building strong relationships with some of the best producers in the state.
"I really want this restaurant to celebrate that in a way that feels authentic to my values and passion as a chef.”
The yet-to-be-named restaurant will be located within the landmark Parliament Square project, also home to The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel part of the Marriott Group. The heritage redevelopment connects Murray Street with Salamanca Place.
“We are proud to be partnering with a local Tasmanian chef to bring Hobart's rich local character to life," says Stephen Morahan, general manager for The Tasman.
The restaurant will open when The Tasman officially opens its door in 2021, offering a new cultural centre for Tasmania's capital city.
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