Fabio Castello’s best life
Head chef at Coopers Brewery Fabio Castello chats about his road from South America to Melbourne and now Adelaide’s famed brewery.
Give us a brief insight into what you do.
As the head chef at Coopers Brewery I work with a great team in the kitchen to prepare an eclectic array of dishes that can be shared and enjoyed. We showcase local produce sourced from South Australia’s premium farmers and producers. The menu is inspired by South American and Mediterranean cuisine, incorporating Coopers premium beers. I began my career in Brazil, studying gastronomy and working at renowned establishments in Rio and Sao Paulo, including 2 Michelin Star restaurant, D.O.M. I also catered for prestigious events such as the Formula One. My parents ran a bakery in Sao Paulo and cooking was a key part of my childhood. In 2015, I moved to Australia to. improve my English and broaden my interntaional business experience initially living in Sydney and then moving to Melbourne where I worked at notable restaurants Vue de monde, Ilona Staller, Massi and The Que Club.
What brings you joy in life?
Quite a lot of things! I love creating, particularly in my cooking by trying out new ingredients and combinations for dishes. I get a great sense of joy from making others happy – as a chef there’s nothing better than seeing people enjoy a meal you’ve created for them. But above all it’s my family. My wife Leah and I have two beautiful children Leila, 19 months, and Mateo, three months old, and our family has two dogs, Marley and Pickle. I met Leah in Sydney, in Pyrmont. While Leah is originally from Adelaide, she was then working at the South Steyne Restaurant in Darling Harbour. I was the sous chef and Leah was working front of house.
What is your most treasured photograph and why?
It is a photo of Leah and I hiking in Chile, where I proposed to her. I had the engagement ring in my pocket as we set out that day. Hiking is something we love to do together. This photo reminds me of this time in our lives, the adventure and the fresh beautiful surroundings.
The best day of your life?
The birth of my first child, Leila. I had the unique opportunity to be with my wife through all 33 hours of labour, fully present in such a profound journey. Leah was a warrior and already a devoted mother even before Leila was born. Honestly, I don’t think I possess even half of my wife’s strength and perseverance. Leila was born strong, crying and adorable.
What is the hardest lesson you’ve had to learn?
I like making people happy in whatever I do. However, I’ve realised that it’s not always possible to make everyone happy, despite your best efforts. There are often things impacting someone outside your control or influence.
What’s the best advice you’ve been given?
My father told me that any interaction you may have with someone will create an impression. I always have this in mind when I’m meeting with people out socially or in my work.
The best meal you’ve eaten?
I would have to pick two. When I was a teenager growing up in Brazil, I went out fishing one day with Dad. We had a great time but caught no fish. When we returned home I was starving and Mum cooked up fried rice. It was delicious. I ate a big serve in record time and afterwards went straight to bed feeling very satisfied.
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The other most memorable meal I had was when I was an apprentice chef working on a small island off the coast of Rio. One night after a busy shift, our head chef took us all out to dinner where we ate pita bread baked in a wood fire oven, with white grapes and gorgonzola. It was such a unique dish that tasted amazing and really opened my eyes to creative cooking.
Best purchase?
Our home in Thebarton. Leah and I bought the cottage and immediately set out renovating it to create our own space and with a view to having a family. It’s proven to be a lovely place for our children to grow up.
Top five songs on your play list?
Porcelain – Moby
Fall at your Feet – the Boy and Bear cover of this Crowded House song
Down Under – Men at Work
Buffalo Soldier – Bob Marley
Deixa eu Dizer – Claudya
My life philosophy is…
To lead by example and treat everyone as equal. This is something I learnt from my mother and it guides the way I approach my work and personal life. It’s a philosophy I also share with my kitchen crew at Coopers.
