Marcello Segalina: you might not his name – but you’re probably familiar with his pizza. He recently joined Jye Glaskin’s (Ruinbar) Mount Hawthorn pizza bar, Il Falco, as head chef. Segalina was previously part of the team at Subiaco Continental, which opened last year in the former Subiaco Pavilion Market space; Fremantle’s Jetty Bar & Eats; and Ruinbar spin-off Pretty Good Pizza.
When he isn’t overseeing the 48-hour pizza-dough fermentation or keeping an eye on the pies as they blister in the woodfired oven at Il Falco, these are the Perth haunts Segalina keeps coming back to.
What’s your go-to for a quick takeaway?
Rym Tarng in Bicton is the goods. It’s a small Thai restaurant that delivers amazing meals with a good spicy kick to them. Plus the staff are absolutely fantastic.
Never miss a Perth moment. Make sure you're subscribed to our newsletter today.
SUBSCRIBE NOWAnd for a drink and snacks?
It’s a difficult choice with such good venues in and around Perth at the moment, but a few of my favourites are Besk in West Leederville (the level of food and service is epic); Edward & Ida’s in Northbridge is great for a sneaky cocktail; and, last but not least, our neighbours down the road in Mount Hawthorn, Casa, who deliver the goods on every level.
And what about the best food close to where you live?
Without doubt it would be Dining Akashi in Applecross. It’s an authentic Japanese restaurant that specialises in tempura and offers a really good omakase menu at dinnertime.
If it’s a special occasion, where are you headed?
Straight to Hearth restaurant at the Ritz-Carlton in Elizabeth Quay. With Brian Cole leading the kitchen team, it’s one of the best dining experiences you can get in WA.
How about a meal with a big group of family or friends?
One of my favourites since it opened has been Gage Roads down in Freo. Its simple premise of great beers, good food and perfect vibes makes it an all-round crowd-pleaser.
Who do you reckon does the best desserts?
Well, considering the recent heatwaves we have been experiencing in Perth, I would say my favourite right now is Chicho Gelato in Northbridge. I absolutely love the small menu, and every single flavour is delicate and spot on!
What’s your favourite dish on the menu at Il Falco?
This is obviously the toughest question, as we are putting a lot of love into our menu at the moment. Ultimately, I would pick the marinara pizza. It’s literally the simplest pizza we have on the menu – made with San Marzano tomato sauce, oregano and freshly shaved garlic – but it is the perfect pizza to really appreciate our dough and tomato sauce. It’s everything Il Falco stands for: getting back to comfy, neighbourhood venues that focus on simple, delicious menu items and flavours.
And is there a hidden gem that you think is underrated but great?
Emperor’s Kitchen in Leeming is likely underrated. It has a delicious selection of handmade dim sums and classic Chinese dishes.
What’s your go-to hangover feed?
There is nothing better than a hot and spicy soup to cure a hangover. My choice would be Oishii Ramen in Myaree. I’ve been going there for over seven years and they deliver a bloody good ramen.
Tell us about a local producer you can’t stop thinking about?
There are so many, but at the top of my list is The Mushroom Guys. They grow incredible mushrooms – topnotch quality and delicious to match with any kind of food. They’re on our funghi pizza at Il Falco, which is one of our bestsellers.
Where would you take someone you’re looking to impress?
Vasse Felix in Cowaramup is a decent drive but definitely worth it. It always delivers incredible food and outstanding service.
What’s your favourite spot for a late-night feed?
The one place I have been loyal to since coming to Perth almost 10 years ago now is City Garden in Northbridge. The food is awesome – perfect for soaking up a few too many beers after a long shift in the kitchen.
Cafes
Restaurants
Bars
Accommodation
Shop
Broadsheet Pick
Recently Opened