The flavour of tradition,
made fresh for you.
Private Chef & Catering Services
Wanaka | Lake Hawea | Southern Lakes
New Zealand
authentic
Italian Food
It’s slow-fermented dough that breathes.
Sauces cooked low and slow, full of depth.
Olive oil as bright as the Tuscan sun.
And smells so good they make time pause.This is food that stays with you long after the last bite. And now, I'm bringing it to your table
It’s slow-fermented dough that breathes. Sauces cooked low and slow, full of depth. Olive oil as bright as the Tuscan sun. And smells so good they make time pause.
This is food that stays with you long after the last bite.
Ciao! I'm Sam,
welcome to my kitchen
From crispy pizzas to heartfelt dinners and easy, delicious ready meals — I make Italian food that feels like home.
I. Private Events
An intimate dinner for two. A lively birthday gathering. A long table filled with friends you haven't seen in years. I bring the food, the atmosphere, and the ease so you can just enjoy.
Perfect for 2-30 guests.
II. Pizza Parties
Flour-dusted hands. The smell of fresh basil. Your guests watching dough transform into crispy, golden perfection in minutes. It's interactive, it's fun. Ideal for any event, whether indoor or outdoor.
III. Pop-ups
The buzz of the crowd. Music in the air. Those "you have to try this" moments passed from friend to friend. From weekend markets to one-off events. Fresh, local, and cooked right in front of you.
IV. Weddings
Authentice Italian pizzas. Handmade pasta. Antipasti platters that disappear in minutes. Whatever feels right for your wedding, across Wanaka and the Southern Lakes.
About Me
I didn't grow up thinking I'd be a chef.
I grew up chasing the smell of garlic frying in olive oil. I grew up watching dough rise slowly under a clean cloth, hearing the bubbling of sauces that had been simmering since morning, and stealing olives before dinner started.Food has always been my language. Now, it's my work: creating moments where people feel connected, whether they're old friends, new neighbours, or visitors who just found themselves lucky enough to be at an Italian table.What matters to me:
Quality ingredients. Traditional techniques. Authentic recipes from the regions I love. And most of all, the people gathered around the table.
How this works
I. Book ahead
II. Your space, my kitchen
III. Flexible menus
IV. Your own service style
I recommend at least 6 weeks' notice, especially for weekends and special events.
I bring everything: ingredients, equipment, cooking, serving, and cleanup. You provide the venue and the appetite.
Italian cuisine is incredibly diverse. I can adapt dishes for dietary needs including gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan.
Full-service with cooking and serving at your venue, interactive on-site preparation, or convenient drop-off of ready-to-serve dishes.
Quality Ingredients
Authentic Recipes
Traditional Techniques
Personal Touch
Quality Ingredients
Your Table is Waiting
I’m not a catering company with a menu you have to fit into. I’m the chef who adapts to you.
Whether it’s your wedding anniversary, a surprise birthday, or a Tuesday night you want to make special, I bring food that feels personal and moments you’ll remember.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book?
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We’re now taking bookings for the 2026–2027 season.Weddings & larger events: at least 6 weeks’ noticeSmaller events (pop-ups, markets, or gatherings of around 15 people): minimum 4 weeks
Do you accommodate dietary restrictions?
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Absolutely! Italian cuisine is incredibly diverse, and I can adapt most dishes for various dietary needs.
What style of catering do you offer?
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We can do buffet-style service, on-site cooking, or simply drop the food off at your venue. It really depends on what works best for your space and the vibe you’re going for.
Do you need a kitchen at the venue?
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Not necessarily. We bring our own pizza oven and can set up our stall if a kitchen isn’t available. We don’t have a food truck (yet!), but we can absolutely cook on-site and even make the cooking part of the experience—depending on the venue layout.
How does pricing work?
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Every event is different, so we work with custom quotes. Once we understand your numbers, location, and vision, we’ll put something together that makes sense.
Do you require a deposit?
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Yes. A non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking to hold your date. The remaining balance is usually due 1 week before the event.
Whether it’s cooking up a feast or just swapping food stories, I’m here for it.
Chef Sam Mari
Phone
+64 027 250 3182
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Say hello or let’s make a plan.
Say hello or let’s make a plan.
Wedding catering in Wānaka
& beyond
You're bringing everyone you love to one place. Feed them something worth the trip.
Fresh Italian food, made at your venue or delivered ready to serve. Either way, it's the kind of meal your guests won't stop talking about.
Four ways to serve Italian
I. Pizza station
The center piece of your reception. Italian pizzas with a selection of classic and gourmet toppings.
II. Italian banquet
Start with antipasti and bruschetta, continue with pizzas and handmade pasta, and finish with Italian desserts.
III. Buffet style
High-quality Italian food delivered ready to serve—perfect if you have your own service team or prefer a simpler setup.
IV. Private chef
For more intimate weddings, our private cheffing service offers a personalised Italian menu prepared and served at your venue.
* All packages are customised. Pricing varies based on guest count, menu selection, and service style. Contact me for a detailed quote.
Perfect for Wānaka
weddings
Our mobile setup is ideal for Wanaka's stunning venues:
Vineyard weddings
Lakeside receptions
Private property celebrations
Marquee events
Intimate garden gatherings
More than just pizza
While our pizzas are our signature, we can create a full Italian feast for your wedding. From antipasti platters and fresh salads to pasta dishes and desserts, we'll work with you to design a menu that reflects your vision.
Would You Try an Award-Winning Pizza?
I was honoured to take 3rd place at the National Pizza Competition in New Zealand; a celebration of skill, passion, and authentic flavour.It’s been a rewarding journey, and I’d love for you to taste what that means in every bite.
Ready to give it a try?
