Caterina Borsato, The Queen of Melbourne Italian Hospitality | Dining Room Stories (Episode 1)

Prepare to pull up a seat and dive into the heart of Melbourne’s hospitality world!

We’re thrilled to announce the launch of Dining Room Stories, a podcast that uncovers the tales behind the people, plates, and passion driving the culinary industry. With decades of experience, Caterina has stories, insights, and memories to share that you won’t want to miss.
Tune in on your favorite platform and join us as we explore the journey of a true hospitality icon.

Key Advice for Aspiring Restaurateurs
Caterina offers invaluable advice for newcomers to the hospitality industry:
1 – Understand Your Business: Before pursuing any dream, ensure you have a solid grasp of the fundamentals, including accounting, market research, and cost management.
2 – Surround Yourself with the Right People: Building a team that shares your vision is crucial. Caterina stresses that hiring for passion, not just skill, can make all the difference.
3 – Know Your Market: Whether catering to corporate clients or families, understanding your audience is vital to tailoring your offerings and positioning your restaurant effectively.
4—Financial Preparedness: Starting a business without adequate funding is a recipe for disaster. Caterina advises saving at least six months’ expenses to weather early challenges.

Early Beginnings and the Birth of a Dream
Raised in the Australian countryside, Caterina’s roots were steeped in a love for Italian traditions and hospitality. Her father, one of Melbourne’s pioneering Italian waiters at Society Restaurant, inspired her understanding of Italian cuisine and its transformative impact on Melbourne’s dining scene. However, it was a scholarship to study in Italy that ignited her lifelong passion for food and wine.

Studying in Perugia, Caterina immersed herself in Italy’s vivacious culture—an experience she describes as “coming alive.” Watching Italians enjoy spritzes, dance, and sing in the streets deeply contrasted with her experiences in Australia. This cultural revelation ultimately shifted her career focus from interpreting to a dream of building a world-class hospitality business in Melbourne.

Early Professional Experiences and Lessons Learned
Caterina’s journey into Melbourne’s hospitality scene wasn’t without its challenges. Starting as a raw and enthusiastic restaurateur, she quickly discovered the multifaceted nature of the business. From a stint at a local football club in 1984 to managing catering at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Caterina honed her skills and built vital connections with Melbourne’s corporate clientele.

In 1989, she opened her first restaurant in Nicholson Street, a venture that—despite its accolades, including a Chef’s Hat—faced significant challenges due to its location. Reflecting on this time, Caterina candidly shares her lessons on the importance of choosing the right partnerships and understanding market dynamics. “Business relationships are like marriages,” she says, emphasising the necessity of mutual respect and shared vision.

Caterina’s on Queen Street: The Iconic Journey
In 1995, Caterina’s dream took a pivotal turn with the opening of Caterina’s Kitchen and Bar on Queen Street. What began as a challenging endeavour, supported by a unique form of community-based crowdfunding, blossomed into a celebrated Melbourne institution.

Caterina credits her success to her loyal corporate patrons and her unwavering commitment to authenticity. Inspired by the rich traditions of Italian cuisine, she sought to create an environment that reflected her personality, values, and passion for storytelling. Over nearly three decades, her restaurant became synonymous with impeccable service, unique design elements, and a warm, intimate dining experience.

Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Resilience
Running a restaurant isn’t without its trials, and Caterina faced her share, including navigating the male-dominated business world and a catastrophic flood in May that forced her beloved restaurant to close for repairs. Her tenacity and strength shine through as she recounts fighting insurance and construction battles to ensure her restaurant retains its character and quality.

Reflecting on her career, Caterina emphasises the importance of persistence, especially for women in the industry. “It hasn’t been easy,” she admits, but her unwavering belief in equality and her mission to pave the way for success.