A taste of Italy
Few people have done more to champion Mildura’s food, wine and produce than Stefano di Pieri. Born in Treviso, near Venice, Stefano migrated to Australia in 1974 and went on to study Politics and Italian Studies at the University of Melbourne. While food had always been a passion, his early career took him through community advocacy, journalism and government, where he worked closely with multicultural communities.
When Stefano and his wife Donata settled in Mildura in the early 90s, they quickly recognised something special about the region. Surrounded by exceptional produce, thriving vineyards and passionate growers, Stefano was surprised that more people didn’t know about what Sunraysia had to offer. Determined to change that, he began telling the region’s story through food.
Drawing on memories of his Italian upbringing and the abundance of local ingredients, Stefano wrote A Gondola on the Murray. The book celebrated both his Venetian heritage and Mildura’s remarkable produce, introducing readers to the flavours, people and character of the region. Its success led to an SBS television series of the same name, helping share Mildura’s food and wine story with audiences across Australia and firmly placing the region on the culinary map.
Today, Stefano’s Restaurant is one of Mildura’s most recognisable and celebrated hospitality venues. Nestled within the historic cellars of the Quality Hotel Mildura Grand, the restaurant has welcomed guests from across Australia and beyond. Built on a philosophy of simple food, quality ingredients and genuine hospitality, it continues a long family tradition of bringing people together around the table.
Beyond the restaurant, Stefano has bottled the flavours of traditional Italian cooking with his range of artisan pasta sauces. Inspired by family recipes and generations of Italian food culture, the range reflects his belief that the best meals begin with simple, honest ingredients. From the classic Plain Pasta Sauce, made with ripe tomatoes, garlic, fresh basil and olive oil, to the bold Olive, Anchovy and Caper Sauce, rich with savoury Mediterranean flavours, each recipe showcases the power of quality ingredients prepared simply. For those who enjoy a little extra warmth, the Chilli Pasta Sauce delivers a gentle heat that complements rather than overpowers, bringing authentic Italian flavour to every table.
Stefano’s passion for sharing food experiences doesn’t stop at the restaurant. Soon, he’ll be opening the doors of his home to offer intimate cooking classes and dining experiences inspired by traditional Italian hospitality. Guests will have the opportunity to cook alongside Stefano, share stories around the table and enjoy an immersive experience centred on authentic food, generous hospitality and meaningful connection.
Stefano’s Pasta Sauces are available from the Mildura Visitor Information Centre, Mildura Riverfront Visitor Information Centre, Mildura Airport and online through Stefano’s website. Whether you’re recreating a family favourite or discovering Italian flavours for the first time, Stefano’s sauces make it easy to bring a taste of Italy to your own table.
For more information about Stefano’s products, restaurant and upcoming experiences, follow him on Facebook and Instagram.
About the Mildura & Mildura Riverfront Visitor Information Centre Gift Shops
Looking for unique, handcrafted gifts with a local touch? Look no further than the Mildura and Riverfront Visitor Information Centres. Step inside the gift shops and discover a curated selection of unique products from over 50 local producers and makers. From delicious produce to stunning artworks, stylish homewares and wellness products, you’ll find something to delight every taste and interest. Every purchase at the Centre directly supports the talented artisans and producers who call Mildura home.
Mildura Visitor Information Centre
180-190 Deakin Avenue, Mildura. T: 03 5018 8380
Open Monday-Friday 10am-5pm, Weekends 10am-4pm & Public Holidays 10am-4pm. Closed Christmas Day.
Mildura Riverfront Visitor Information Centre
122 Hugh King Drive, Mildura. T: 03 5018 8380
Open Tuesday-Saturday 10am-3pm. Closed Sunday & Monday.
