The family behind one of Tasmania’s most popular Italian food businesses is mourning the loss of their matriarch, who has been described as “the heart” of the award-winning Pizzirani’s Cucina.
In a heartfelt statement, the family announced the sudden passing of their “Nonna”, who played an integral role in shaping the Italian-Australian fusion food business that recently won back-to-back People’s Choice Awards at the Taste of Summer festival.
“With heavy hearts, we share the sudden passing of our family matriarch and the most cherished person in our world, our beautiful Nonna,” the family statement read.
“She was the heart of Pizzirani’s – shaping everything we do with her hands, her stories and her boundless love.”
The 85-year-old had continued working alongside her daughter and granddaughter Olivia at the family’s popular food stall until recently.
Olivia Pizzirani, who founded the business based on her grandparents’ legacy, opened her own restaurant at just 21 years old on Tasmania’s north-west coast.
Earlier this month, Pizzirani’s Cucina claimed the People’s Choice Award at Taste of Summer for the second consecutive year, beating competitors at the waterfront festival which attracted nearly 100,000 visitors.
“It’s amazing to win something, but to be able to do it again is such an awesome testament to the team that we have,” Olivia told Pulse at the time.
In their statement, the family thanked those who were part of Nonna’s life and encouraged supporters to “cook slowly, gather together, and make an extra-special pot of bolognese in her honour”.
“Through food, family, and love, she will live on with us, always.”
