Born in Australia to Sicilian parents it would be an understatement to say a passion for food is in John Lanzafame's blood, more like smoked, cooked and cured into it!
His training began from an early age at his Mother's side, his earliest memories are of preparing the Salami's and Pasta for the traditional Sunday lunch and still today at the age of 35 and former Head Chef of one of Australia's most renowned restaurant groups - Hugo's, John will tell you his Mother and her cooking are his inspiration.
Before joining Hugo's Group in 2004 John travelled extensively, cooking in some of the most picturesque parts of the world; the Pyrenees Mountains in Andorra, Barcelona and throughout Italy and Sicily. His passion for food has been acknowledged in the many awards and accolades he has been presented, some of the most prestigious being; Best Pizza at World American Plate in 2005, Best Pizza at Australia's Best of the Best in 2005 and again for NSW in 2007 and Winner of the One World Competition in Iceland in 2006.
Over the years John has worked with and been involved in the openings of some of Sydney's top restaurants and functions centres, in 2002 he opened his own restaurant 'Lanzafame' in Haberfield which went on to win a place in the 'Top 3 Best Italian Restaurant and Wine List Awards'. In mid 2008 he opened the doors to his new restaurant 'Lanzafame Trattoria' in Sydney's Star City Casino and in 2009 is finalising plans for the opening of his signature restaurant in the eastern suburbs of Sydney.
In 2005 John was asked to join the Australian Olympic Culinary Team and in 2008 represented Australia in the Games in Germany bringing home, two gold, one silver and one bronze medal. In 2009 he will represent Australia in the Global Chef competitions.
His passion for authentic Italian cooking is infectious and with a smile as big as his personality John has been asked to appear on many Australian TV shows such as 'Pizza' for the Lifestyle channel, Ready Steady Cook, Kerri-Anne and most recently Chefs Christmas for Lifestyle, 9am with Dave and Kim and Fresh on Ch9.
John's first book 'Pizza Moda Mio'(My Style) published with Murdoch Books in August 2008 and hit their best seller list within weeks. He is currently writing his second with Murdoch due for launch in 2010.
John lives in Sydney with his wife Justine and their children, Isabella 6 and Dante 3.
