THE FOUNDER + HEAD CHEF
Kelly Cacciola
Taking the leap…
When I graduated from high school, I worked in various roles trying to find something that lit my soul on fire. When I was 21 I finally took the leap and began my career as a young, enthusiastic kitchen hand, and was offered an apprenticeship at Assaggio Cafe in Newton.
For the next nine years, I worked across various Adelaide venues…. I moved from the local pizza cafe to the Queen’s Head Hotel in North Adelaide, where I gained confidence in the kitchen and completed my apprenticeship.
Soon after, I successfully landed my dream job at one of Adelaide’s most famous establishments, Africola, where the restaurant’s culture & open kitchen could only be described as electric. I spent long days and late nights there, surrounded by brilliant chefs, immersed in hard work to create dishes filled with flavour and soul.
My final stint was at Pike & Joyce winery in the Adelaide Hills, where I furthered my knowledge in wine and food pairing.
An early start…
My passion for cooking naturally blossomed early in life. Growing up in Adelaide to parents of Australian, Italian, Irish & Dutch heritage, I was always surrounded by food. I have wonderful memories of family events… from large celebrations at my Aunty Nunzia’s house, to the small intimate Sunday lunches at Nonna Francesca’s house.
We didn’t speak a lot of Italian growing up, but we bonded with our Italian family over one of life’s simple pleasures… cooking. I remember so vividly watching Nonna make fresh gnocchi on her dining table. I would watch eagerly with my brothers, ready for Nonna to teach us her way.
My favourite meal today still remains a bowl of fresh gnocchi…. Taking me back to those magical moments with one of my favourite family members.
A new beginning…
When the pandemic hit and many kitchens closed, I took the opportunity to slow down and make the most of my free weekends. I indulged with my fiancé by visiting wineries & restaurants, spending more time at home, planting herb gardens and working on new recipes.
This was where I began really working on my dream…
My dream of sharing my love for good food with the people of Adelaide.
My dream of cooking high-quality meals for people in their own homes.
My dream of making the personal chef experience accessible and affordable.
My dream of Intima Dining
My mission is to share delicious food with the people from South Australia, by bringing sophisticated food and wine, all packaged up in an unforgettable experience that you’ll remember for a lifetime.
