By Leigh O’Connor.
Growing up, Gabriele Pezzimenti’s kitchen was a constant fusion of traditions and stories – each meal a celebration of heritage.
With his Mum going back to work early to support the family, Gabriele spent most of the week under the loving care of his grandparents.
"Both retired, they were always eager to spoil me, especially with the food traditions they brought with them,” he tells AGFG. "My Grandmother is from Bergamo in Northern Italy and my Grandfather from Calabria in the South, making sure I was surrounded by a rich blend of regional flavours.
"Zeppole, cotoletta Milanese, slasa (homemade Neapolitan sauce) and casoncelli – these were the staples we lived by.”
In fact, these dishes are still a part of his everyday life as he oversees the kitchen at Market & Meander on Market Street in the heart of Adelaide’s CBD, where authentic modern Italian flavours come to life on the plate.
"As I grew older, with both my grandparents’ influence and the necessity of helping out, I learned to cook – especially pasta. Mum would prepare the ingredients the night before and guide me step by step, teaching me the art of pasta making.
"Every day after school, I’d step into the kitchen and make my lunch, a ritual that became part of my daily life.”
This period of time coincided with the start of middle school, where Gabriele vividly remembers his teacher discussing the significance of food culture in Italy:
"Little did I know, those early cooking lessons would stay with me forever, shaping not just my skills, but my identity and connection to my roots.”
Inspired by a story of a former student who became a renowned Chef, travelling the world and sharing the heart and soul of Italian tradition across continents, Gabriele knew that was the path he was destined for.
"I took the leap. I embarked on a journey of decades filled with exploration, discovery and adventure. I immersed myself in diverse cultures, honing my craft and carrying the essence of Italian heritage, wherever I went.
"Then, one day amidst my travels, I met my wife. In her, I found my home. Together we planted our roots in the vibrant city of Adelaide, where we continue to embrace both the adventure and deep connection to the traditions that have shaped me.”
Defining his style as ‘food for the soul’, Gabriele says comfort food doesn’t just fill you up but lifts your spirit.
"It is food that makes you happy, done right, bursting with rich, layered flavours. Every dish has a twist, a thoughtful surprise in the ingredients, designed to reflect, respect and honour the people and land around me.
"It’s about creating a connection through every bite – food that comforts, excites and tells a story.”
It is no surprise, Gabriele is sharing his casoncelli pasta recipe:
"Casoncelli is more than just a dish – it’s a piece of my heart, a beloved tradition from my hometown. Even though I was born in Milano, I grew up in Bergamo, a small medieval city just North of the bustling Big City.
"Bergamo is rich with history and traditions and casoncelli is one of the gems that has stood the test of time for centuries. Every bite of these dumplings tells the story of generations past. Mums and grandmothers gather together, seated in the warmth of the kitchen, making casoncelli while gossiping about the latest happenings in the village,” he explains.
"It's more than just cooking - it's a ritual, a way of staying connected. For me, casoncelli is a childhood dish, filled with deep, comforting flavours, yet simple, as true Italian cuisine should be. It’s a taste of home, a taste of history and a taste of love.”
Market & Meander stands out as a unique gem, nestled right on the doorstep of the iconic Adelaide Central Markets and across the road from vibrant Chinatown.
"At Market & Meander, we invite you to indulge in a one-of-a-kind culinary experience where local, fresh ingredients meet the soul-soothing flavours of Northern Italian cuisine.
"With each dish, you’ll savour the essence of Italy, perfectly blended with the distinct notes of our lively neighbourhood. It’s more than just a meal, it’s food for the soul, crafted with love and inspired by the rich culture that surrounds us.”
Gabriele wants every guest who walks through the restaurant door to feel truly special and valued as if they are part of something unique. At the same time, he is deeply committed to building a team that is confident, strong and inspiring.
"A team that works together with passion, energy and respect, so we can bring our best to every plate and every interaction. When both your guests and team leave with a smile, that’s when I know we’ve done something meaningful.”
