Vasse Virgin Chef - Romano Rotelli

“Food in Italy is not only about eating; it is about celebrating the gathering of special people, the family and friends”

This is the philosophy of Italian born Chef Romano Rotelli. Beginning his career in fine food in Italy at the age of fourteen and perfecting his culinary talent in Europe, Romano migrated to Australia at the age of twenty-three to bring his passion for food to Australia.

Romano spent over four years working on exclusive Lizard Island off the coast of Far North Queensland as Executive Chef. He also has worked in the rainforest of Cape Tribulation and Cairns before moving to Western Australia when lured to Flutes at Brookland Valley in 2000.

Romano and his wife Alison then took on the challenge of opening their own restaurant ‘Pensiero’ in Witchcliffe which soon earned a high reputation for good food and attentive friendly service. This proved a popular venue for locals, regular visitors and tourists to enjoy the local wines from Margaret River.

Three years later in 2005, with the production of their gourmet food line being so successful, they concentrated on producing exclusive products under the labels of ‘Fine Food of Margaret River’ and also ‘Margaret River Jam Co’. Producing high quality pestos, jams, chutneys, sweet chilli sauces, pates, vinaigrettes, dressings, tapenades and dukkahs is Romano’s way of sharing his passion for good food and entertaining with others equally as passionate.

Romano caters for special functions and weddings; he is involved in the local area for food consulting and also offers cooking classes for special events where he can share his wealth of knowledge with his guests. His kitchen is situated in the middle of his Olive Grove nestled near the Boranup Forest.

Food in Italy is about celebrating and gathering of special people, and Romano’s Italian background has influenced his belief about food being central and putting every effort into making sure that every meal is prepared with attention to detail. This is why Romano’s philosophy to food is showcased in every product he prepares.