our story

Chris’ passion for Italian cooking and bringing family and friends together started from as young as Chris can remember, watching and helping his Nonno and Nonna in the kitchen cooking the Catalano family recipes. Chris’ late Nonno Pasquale and Nonna Rosa Maria purchased a property in Victoria Park in the 1960’s and opened Don’s Pizza Bar, which the Catalano family ran successfully right through until the late 80’s. 

It was at this time that Chris’ mother Liz & father Domenic purchased their own business, The Lake Street Cafe in Northbridge. Chris basically lived at his family's business every day after school and on weekends, watching and learning. As Chris got older, he realised this was something he wanted to pursue following in his dad, mum,  nonno & nonnas footsteps. The passion for food was ignited and as the years went on, this is where Chris’ official hospitality career began. 

In 2004 the Catalano family went back to their roots, still owning the original building where it all started in 1967. Chris and one of his siblings stayed awake until the early hours one morning creating the original recipes you see today. Domenic opened Catalanos Cafe in Victoria Park. With Chris at the helm in the kitchen every night producing the Catalano family recipes for everyone to enjoy, until Domenic retired in 2016. 

In 2016 Chris and Kirsty both met, and each realised they shared the same passion for hospitality. Kirsty has been working in the hospitality industry for over 20 years and the passion she has for working in restaurants is clear, she thrives on it. Nothing beats working in a fast-paced environment knowing that your customers are leaving with having had exceptional customer service, a few laughs and full bellies. 

In 2017 Chris and Kirsty started working at Chris’ sibling's restaurant in Baldivis. Chris worked as Head Chef in the kitchen at night and Kirsty managed front of house at night for the next 5 years. During this time Chris and Kirsty got married and shortly after both realised, they would like to pursue their very own dream, of having their own restaurant with their children. 

To us nothing is more satisfying than hosting our family and friends in our own “Catalano Family Kitchen” making everyone feel like they are at home, enjoying great food and great company. Thus, creating the name for our future restaurant. This is the atmosphere we want to create for our customers. We want you to feel like you’re eating in our home.