Where Chefs Eat: Alessandro Pizzolato of Settimo, Brisbane

When Settimo opened in The Westin Brisbane in February 2023, much of the focus was on restaurateur and celebrity chef Guy Grossi. But over its first year of operation, attention has shifted toward Roman-born head chef Alessandro Pizzolato.

Pizzolato has more than 20 years of experience working at Michelin-starred restaurants including George Restaurant in Naples and La Pergola in Rome. He moved to Australia and cheffed his way through Cairns, Perth and Byron Bay before settling in Brisbane. He spent time on the pans at Hellenika and Clear Mountain Lodge before he joined the team at Settimo.

Working as a chef – particularly as head chef at a thriving restaurant that’s just passed it’s one-year mark – is an all-consuming gig. So where does Pizzolato go when he has a rare day off? Broadsheet sat down with the chef to chat about his favourite takeaway spots, the dish on the Settimo menu that reminds him of home and his favourite neighbourhood eateries.

What’s your favourite dish on the menu at your restaurant?
I always go back to the pasta al limone and the scialatielli all’Amalfitana. They take me back home and to the flavours of my childhood. But also, the lamb shoulder.

What’s your go-to for a quick takeaway?
I like Scugnizzi, a little Italian shop in the city that does great Roman-style pizza, as well as pasta and other delicious Italian street food. The guys have passion for what they do, and it shows in the product. Also, Sunshine on James Street for a nice, healthy Mediterranean take-out.

And for a drink and snacks?
I like Etna for a couple of Italian nibbles, and Snack Man for the Asian equivalent. They both have great wines and attentive service. Also, Greca for a bit of Greek food and a wine

If it’s a special occasion, where are you headed?
Hellenika, SK Steak & Oyster and Sushi Room are always my first choice. I love what they do, and you can feel the pride and care filtering through all aspects of the experience. I never had a bad night when visiting.

How about a meal with a big group of family or friends?
I’m biased [but I’ll] say Settimo. Our private dining room is pretty special and I really enjoy hosting my family and friends to a wonderful Italian feast. Also, Rosmarino has a great space for big groups. I do enjoy Stanley as well. They have wonderful interior design and good set menus for groups.

And what about the best food close to where you live?
The Little Tree Cafe in Samford does some funky, tasty stuff, as well as amazing meat pies and pastry, and an outstanding sourdough. I love going there for lunch or a sundowner with my family and watching a gig whilst having a nice wine and some food to share.

And is there a hidden gem that you think is underrated but great?
Taro’s Ramen! So underrated but [it has] the best ramen in Brisbane.

And where do you think does the best coffee in town?
There’s a little hole in the wall on Edward Street called Ricochet that does really good coffee. I usually grab a coffee [there] every second day.

Tell us about a local producer you can’t stop thinking about?
I really like the swordfish and tuna we get from Walker Seafood in Mooloolaba, as well as our beef supplier based in Kilcoy. I really love what they do, and the excellence they bring every time.

@chefalessandropizzolato
@settimobrisbane