A Tasmanian family business has won back-to-back People’s Choice Awards at the Taste of Summer, with punters voting Pizzirani’s Cucina their favourite stall for the second year running.
The Italian-Australian fusion food stall beat competitors to claim the prize at the waterfront festival, which is wrapping up today after attracting more than 88,000 visitors.
Owner Olivia Pizzirani said the repeat win showed the strength of her team and their unique offering.
“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,” she told Pulse.
“It’s like the icing on the cake.”
The business was founded on the legacy of her grandparents, who immigrated from northern Italy and opened an Italian restaurant in Tasmania.
She grew up in that restaurant before opening her own venue at 21 on the state’s north-west coast.
After eight years running the restaurant and a food truck, Pizzirani and her partner expanded into festivals and events.
Today, her 85-year-old nonna and mother work alongside her at the stall.
“For us it’s just about building the family memories,” she said.
Taste of Summer general manager Katharine Dean said the back-to-back win was a significant achievement.
“To win it once is a big achievement. To win it two years in a row really shows how much people love what Pizzirani’s Cucina brings to the Taste,” she said.
The award is presented in partnership with official charity partner SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY.
Pizzirani’s serves homemade pasta, bolognese, spring rolls and halloumi fries, showcasing what Pizzirani calls “that beautiful Australian-Italian fusion”.
Looking ahead to 2026, Olivia Pizzirani said her focus would be on learning and evolving recipes through travel and new experiences.
“We hope to be able to be back at events like this and Winter Feast and all the beautiful big food festivals,” she said.
The business also caters weddings and private events throughout the year.
