Now in its 30th year, Festa offers all things Italian and attracts more than 100,000 visitors each year into the heart of Sydney's Little Italy.  Market stalls with great food & wine, and a long communal table for family and friends to get together.  There are rides, an animal farm  and fun activities for the 'little kids' and Auto Festa – Sydney's largest collection of Italian cars – so the 'big kids' can dream about driving an Alfa Romeo, Ferrari or Lamborghini.  Cooking  demonstrations by 'Italian chefs with great taste' and samples for visitors to try are a Festa highlight. There's also a soccer clinic – and entry to Festa is free.

A chef that makes Festa 'a must attend to see' is Matteo Zamboni, Executive chef & Owner of Zambo Restaurant in the old Marque restaurant site, in the heart of Crown Street in Surry Hills. Matteo & his team play with innovative techniques to deliver a variety of contemporary flavours and textures strongly influenced by his Italian heritage and flavoured with an Australian touch.

Since starting his culinary career in London at the age of 16, Matteo has worked in some of the most prestigious Michelin starred venues all over the world including La Pergola in Rome, Cracco ristorante in Milan and RyuGin in Tokyo.  Since settling permanently in Australia in 2009 he has worked at the multi-award winning Quay restaurant alongside chef Peter Gilmore and at the two hatted Ormeggio at the Spit in Mosman. In 2012 he became Head Chef at Pilu at Freshwater expanding his gastronomic knowledge and leadership skills.  Matteo has a contagious passion for creative cuisine, innovative textures & flavours.  His dedication and attention to detail

Contact Marjorie Anderson AM Ph: 0292472490 or Email: mha@andersonknight.com.au for Matteo's recipe for Risotto ai funghi e Parmigiano Reggiano