Paolo’s Pizza Bar’s Exciting Transition
Written by Lizzie Macaulay
By the time you read this, Paolo Esposito, namesake and founder of Paolo’s Pizza Bar, will have zoomed off to Mexico to start the next chapter of his life.
And while Paolo may have moved on to new adventures, his legacy remains. What he’s leaving behind – has left behind – is the product of 16 years of dedication, craftsmanship and commitment to quality Italian cuisine, that has become a Fraser Coast institution.
Fret not dear reader, this may seem like an ending, but in fact the epic tale of Paolo’s is really only just beginning, thanks to new owners and passionate foodies, Sebastien and Isabelle.
Chances are, if you’ve dropped into Paolo’s over the last few years, you’ve already encountered head chef and co-owner Sebastien’s signature interpretation of traditional Napoletana cuisine with flashes of the contemporary sprinkled throughout.
Having enjoyed life back-of-house in restaurants all over Australia and beyond, Sebastien and partner, Isabelle decided that the Hervey Bay life was the life for them and their growing family way back in 2019.
As fate would have it, Paolo’s proved to be the perfect backdrop for Sebastien to express his love for food, and further cement a visit to the restaurant as a must-do experience for locals and visitors alike.
And to let you in on a little secret…
You may not even have realised it, but tiny tweaks and embellishments have been creeping in (including tasty little pillows of handmade gnocchi) as the transition to new ownership has crept closer.
In fact, it has been months now since Paolo had even stepped into the kitchen in a cooking capacity, opting to give Sebastien complete creative freedom to set the tone for the future.
And what a bright future we can enjoy.
Patrons of Paolo’s can expect the same standards of quality and flavour as always with some delectable new additions:
- ‘Lievito de madre’ (sourdough) pizza bases – made from a signature sourdough starter named ‘Ozzy’ designed to be easily digested and always enjoyed
- Lazy weekend brunches are expected to become a Fraser Coast staple experience, with a new brunch menu including X and Y recently released to an enthusiastic reception
- Additional vegan offerings that honour traditional flavours and techniques whilst embracing the tastes and needs of all comers
- A tantalising expansion of the dessert menu, including ‘loaded’ Zeppole, so make sure you come ravenous and save plenty of room for these sweet morsels!
While there is plenty of ‘newness’ to celebrate, the essence of Paolo’s will always remain constant. The emphasis on honouring flavour with simplicity, the tight-knit family of staff members (special mention to Seppe, pizza chef extraordinaire for the last eight years), the unmistakable bustling atmosphere of one of the most popular spots on the Fraser Coast – all these beloved elements will remain the beating heart of Paolo’s Pizza Bar.
These cherished traditions, combined with Sebastien and Isabelle’s fresh vision, ensure that Paolo’s will continue to be a cornerstone of the Fraser Coast’s culinary landscape for years to come.