Est. 2019 – ANTIPASTO

derived from the Latin root “anti” meaning “before”, and “pastus” meaning “meal”.

From as long as I can remember I have been involved in our family cafes and restaurants.
I met my now husband (and career chef) at one of these cafes, where we worked alongside each other. Matt was running the kitchen, whilst I managed the FOH. I started to develop an interest in the back of house operations, and in time we started working even closer together; developing menus, specials, working the food service together. We both share a love for food and entertaining. We want people to see food through our eyes: as an experience, not just as a necessity. When I see a plate of delicious, colourful and fresh food, my eyes light up, my smile grows and the conversation, laughter and good times seem to come naturallyFrom as long as I can remember I have been involved in our family cafes and restaurants.

I met my now husband (and career chef) at one of these cafes, where we worked alongside each other. Matt was running the kitchen, whilst I managed the FOH. I started to develop an interest in the back of house operations, and in time we started working even closer together; developing menus, specials, working the food service together. We both share a love for food and entertaining. We want people to see food through our eyes: as an experience, not just as a necessity. When I see a plate of delicious, colourful and fresh food, my eyes light up, my smile grows and the conversation, laughter and good times seem to come naturally.

2019 was a big year for closing doors but also for opening new and exciting ones for Matt and I. My family and I sold our busy café and catering business which then formulated an idea that had been developing in my head for quite a few years, inspired by my three obsessions: Food, Italy and Travel.

The Big Antipasto evolved and grew, and Matt, despite having his own full time cheffing job, became more and more involved. We now run The Big Antipasto together, combining both our expertises and personal skills, which has allowed us to expand our menu and services. Our menu has since grown from our beautiful cheese, charcuterie and antipasto boards to include sandwiches, gourmet ciabattas, rustic finger foods, salads, fruit platters, kid’s party food and much more, making it even easier for our customers to host their parties!

Italy and Travel

Living in Florence, Italy throughout my 20’s, my love for the Mediterranean and all it encompasses was set in stone. I became obsessed with learning all the traditions (particularly food and drink). I wanted to understand the rules of how, where, when and what Italians do or don’t eat and the reasons behind it. Aperitivo, digestivi, antipasto, are just some of the Italian culinary habits that illustrate how they eat and drink and how it aligns with their family-orientated, socially balanced lifestyle and love for flavours, pleasure and creativity.

I hope I can bring a glimpse of this to you through my carefully curated platters, boxes, boards and tables.