1992
Antonio and Luisa Cacace, recently married, made the decision to leave the beautiful Amalfi Coast town of Massa Lubrense, in Italy. They chose to move to New Zealand, looking for new opportunities and to honour the Italian tradition of leaving the family business in the capable hands of his younger brother and sister, and of course under the watchful eyes of their extraordinarily hard-working mother, Anna.
2001
La Bella Italia moved to Petone. At first the business was mainly wholesale, but gradually Antonio and Luisa also supplied retail goods and ran a café alongside. The new concept was born, importing exclusive, premium products from Italy, sold from a space where customers could also choose to sit down for a meal. With their products and with their menus, the Cacace’s strove to educate Kiwis about Italy’s wonderful food culture.
2007
La Bella Italia went on to become a prominent food destination in Wellington, gathering widespread media interest and awards along the way.
2014
In the years after Antonio hosted his first tour in 2007 La Bella Italia went on to not only be one of the most popular food destinations in Wellington but the winner of many awards and the focus of culinary magazine and media articles. Peta Mathias even made a documentary on Antonio and Luisa’s story. La Bella organised and hosted many events including the Italian film festival, the Italian food and culture festival at the overseas terminal, and Antonio was awarded the Cavaliere Order of Merit by the Republic of Italy for his commitment to both commercial and cultural fields in promoting Italy in New Zealand.
1996
At first Antonio worked alongside his brothers-in-law, exploring various roles in the local fishing industry. At this time he also recognised the desperate need for quality Italian products in New Zealand. He began La Bella Italia from a tiny premises in Berhampore, with two garages at the back for storage. From the beginning, Antonio noticed New Zealanders were ready to be challenged with new and exclusive products.
2003
La Bella Italia became the first local business to introduce the New Zealand market to the delights of Prosciutto di Parma, Prosciutto di San Daniele, Bufala mozzarella and more, all sourced from their region of origin.
2007
As part of the La Bella Italia philosophy of educating New Zealanders about Italian products and food culture, Antonio began his personally guided food tours throughout Italy. His aim was to share his passion and love for Italy and local knowledge with those who joined him. The tours have always begun and ended by staying with Antonio’s family, back in hometown Massa Lubrense, at the family hotel and restaurant, La Primavera, where everything began.
2020
As we know Covid was challenging, but La Bella remained agile and was truly grateful for the support of all their friends during a tricky time in the hospitality industry.
2023
Antonio’s tours are back in action and despite continuing challenges in the industry, La Bella Italia is back to being open at full capacity offering breakfast, lunch and dinner services.
