At Fritto, everything starts with a love for food and the joy of bringing people together.
Rooted in our Italian heritage and shaped by kitchens around the world, we create modern catering experiences for weddings, events and corporate functions across the Bay of Plenty and beyond.
Our story began in the most Italian way possible — with food, friendship and a shared belief that good cooking should be simple, authentic and generous. What started as two Italians meeting in the Bay of Plenty quickly grew into a partnership built on passion, professionalism and a deep respect for tradition.
The team
Stefano: born and raised just outside Milan, Stefano is a trained banquette and hotel chef, with experience in Italy, Spain, France, Australia and of course New Zealand. In 2023 he launched his own cooking classes brand, Autentico. He brings over twenty years of international culinary experience across France, Spain, Italy, Australia and New Zealand.
Federico: Born near Bologna, Federico grew up surrounded by some of Italy’s best food. He worked in local markets from a young age before building a career in events and sport. Travel eventually brought him to Mount Maunganui, where his love for hospitality found its true home.
One of us cooks, crafts and perfects the flavours; the other brings structure, planning and event expertise — a combination that turns good food into seamless catering.
More on this article on Our Place magazine: Fritto on Our Place Magazine
Our Catering Philosophy
Whether it’s a wedding, corporate event or private celebration, we design menus that feel warm, generous and effortless.
Our specialty is family-style Italian catering, where food becomes part of the celebration — shared plates, flowing courses, delicious canapés, beautiful desserts.
We can also create continental menus and NZ classics, adapting to your tastes while keeping our signature approach: honest food, thoughtful service, and deep respect for ingredients.
Dietary requirements? We take care of them with the same dedication and flavour-forward approach as every dish we serve.
A Growing Family of Services
We are proud to introduce our artisan gelato cart, the newest addition to the Fritto family.
Handcrafted Italian gelato, served with elegance, is a beautiful final touch for weddings and events — and a reflection of the quality and pride we bring to everything we do.
Let’s Create Something Delicious Together
If you’re planning a wedding, organising a corporate function, or dreaming up a special celebration, we’d love to help you bring it to life with food that feels like a warm welcome — Italian in spirit, crafted with care.