About Us

This is the first restaurant for owner & head chef Mario Tavian whose family migrated from Northern Italy in the early 1950’s. Mario has worked in the hospitality industry for over 20 years. His influences predominately come from his late mother who taught him to cook with passion, love & most importantly flavour – which is evident in his seasonal menus which incorporates regional Italian dishes.

He was raised and spent all of his childhood in the Frankston area and it only seems fitting to open his restaurant here.

His apprenticeship was guided by local chef Colin Brooks of “Pizza Piazza” in Mt Eliza which also included an award for ‘Best 3rd year Apprentice’.

In 1992 he was Sous Chef at the newly opened “Via Mare” restaurant in Frankston. For four years, with head chef Des Betinski, they created a special dining experience ahead of its time. Ironically 10 years later Mario would call “Via Mare” home and change its name to “Caesars”.

In 1999 Mario moved to Sydney and helped establish one of the finest restaurants in the Leichhardt area. The Italian Forum was the venue and he taught the Sydney-siders how it’s done! With appearances on the Channel 9 ‘Today Show’ and the Channel 7 ‘Weekender’, Mario became well known in the so called ‘Little Italy’ area.

Now having the chance to showcase his culinary skills to the maximum, you will be delighted in the presentation & the flavours of each dish which incorporates local and imported produce.

Mario together with his partner Stephanie, whom greets you with a warm smile and makes you feel at home, will ensure every visit is one to remember.