The Culinary Journey Of Giorgio
From Italy to Brazil to Matakana Village Farmers’ Market; meet the man behind the Italian pasta creating a stir at the Village Farmers’ Market.
Born in Rome, Italy, into a family deeply rooted in the art of fine dining, Georgio Ridolfi was immersed in the rich culinary heritage of his homeland from a young age, quickly developing a passion for Italian cuisine, with a particular focus on perfecting pasta and Mediterranean seafood dishes.
His love for food and cooking led him to open two high-end restaurants in Fiumicino, a coastal town near Rome. These establishments quickly became favourites among the elite clientele of the capital, offering a unique blend of tradition and innovation that set them apart in the competitive dining scene.
In 2004, Giorgio’s culinary journey took an exciting turn when he married Renate and moved to her hometown, Curitiba, Brazil. With determination and a deep love for Italian cuisine, Giorgio opened a bistro in Curitiba, where he introduced the local community to authentic Italian flavours, skilfully fused with Brazilian influences. His bistro quickly gained popularity, becoming a must-visit spot for those seeking an extraordinary dining experience.
The year 2020 marked another significant chapter in Giorgio’s life when he and his family moved to New Zealand, driven by the desire to provide a better future for their children, Giorgia, 16, and Andreas, 18. Whangārei was chosen for its peaceful environment and because Renate had secured a position at a renowned dental clinic there. For Giorgio, however, the move brought new challenges, including the task of learning English in a new country.
Recognising that opening a restaurant might not be feasible while still mastering the language, Giorgio decided to share his culinary expertise with the local community in a different way. He began producing and selling Italian pasta and other traditional products, bringing authentic Italian cuisine to a region with little connection to this rich culinary tradition. His products quickly gained recognition for their exceptional quality, earning him a coveted spot at the Matakana Village Farmers’ Market. There the main attraction is Giorgio's legendary cheese wheel, where he crafts his signature Pasta Alla Ruota - a gooey, cheesy masterpiece.
Saturdays have since become the happiest day of the week for Giorgio. It’s the day he meets
his friends, fellow stallholders, and regular customers at the market. His children, Giorgia and Andreas, both play an active role in the family business, helping with sales at the market. Andreas also adds a personal touch to their presence by regularly performing with his band, Blind Eyes, making the market not just a place of work, but a vibrant community hub for the family.
Giorgio's satisfaction comes from more than just business success; it’s the joy of bringing a piece of his heritage and professional expertise to New Zealand. Whether through his handcrafted pasta or the vibrant market atmosphere, Giorgio continues to connect with the local community, making Saturdays not just a day of work, but a celebration of culture, family, and friendship.