G’day friends, Ciao!

Today I’m thrilled to introduce you to a true passion project right here in our South West — PastArtisan, the labour of love from chef ‘Andrea Antonio D’Ambrosio.

From the sun-drenched hills of Italy to the markets and tables of Margaret River, Andrea’s story is one of hard work, family, flavour, and deep community spirit.

A Journey from Naples to Margaret River

Andrea started cooking school at just 14 in Naples. Summers were spent working in restaurants and hotels, and by 18 he was already gaining real experience alongside his dad. That tough but formative time lit a fire in him.

Over the years he chased seasons and opportunities across Italy — the Dolomites, Emilia-Romagna, Sardinia — honing his craft as a chef and even opening his own restaurant at the young age of 20. A stint in Ireland helped him learn English, and in September 2013 a call from a friend brought him to Australia.

Two weeks later he landed at La Scarpetta in Margaret River as head chef (and later co-owner). There he began making pizza and fresh pasta using skills picked up from family heritage, his working adventures & travels. Andrea’s vibrant, flavour-packed, and fresh menu quickly won hearts.

(We can personally confirm this — without even knowing Chef Andrea was in the kitchen back in those days, we visited many times over throughout the years and could taste the love then, just as you can today.)

PastArtisan was born from a simple but powerful love: “I love eating pasta and I love sharing my passion with others.”

Pasta Made with Heart and Childhood Memories

When Andrea makes pasta, it takes him straight back to his childhood. “My mum used to make gnocchi for lunch on Sundays. The whole family would start by boiling the potatoes and letting them cool down in front of a fan to speed up the process. And the ragù would be cooking from 6 am.”

That warmth and tradition is poured into every batch he creates today.

“Making fresh pasta is a simple skill with each step contributing to the final result,” he says. “Choosing the right ingredients is crucial; without them, it’s just plain pasta. I use simple ingredients but ensure they’re flavourful. My secret is cooking only what I want to eat.”

His signature dishes that keep customers coming back include the crowd-pleasing tortelli with mushrooms in butter and sage — “always a crowd-pleaser” — and the rich pappardelle with slow-cooked lamb ragù.

His advice for home cooks is pure joy: “Have fun and sing along while you cook — just like I do!”

A Family Affair in the South West

PastArtisan runs as a beautiful family and friends operation. His partner Thea juggles social media, orders, and everything in between (while also being pregnant — superwoman!). Friend Vincenzo from his hometown is a daily rock, and young son Senan is the official taste-tester.

Andrea also works as head chef at the beautiful Olio Bello, where he’s been for almost two years, creating magic with their organic olive oil.

What he loves most about our region? The strong sense of community. “People truly value locally made food and enjoy coming together at markets, festivals, and community events.” He sources ingredients from local markets, his own garden, Dardanup, and his trusted Italian supplier in Perth.

Why We Love Supporting Businesses Like PastArtisan

Stories like Andrea’s are exactly why Looksi exists. Small local businesses like PastArtisan pour their heart, heritage, and hard work into every product. When we support them — whether by grabbing a packet of fresh pasta at the market, ordering from the trailer, or booking catering for a wedding — we’re helping families thrive and keeping our South West food culture rich and authentic.

Andrea’s message to our community says it beautifully:

“Every bowl of pasta we serve is crafted with passion, tradition and a genuine love for bringing people together over delicious food. As a small local business, your support means the world to us.”

Catch PastArtisan at Markets & Pop-Ups

You’ll often find Chef Andrea and the team in their food trailer popping up at local markets, events, and various spots around the South West (Andrea’s favourite way to connect with the community).

A few regular spots include the Margaret River Farmers Market Saturday mornings 730-11am where you’ll be able to stock up on freshly made batches & Better Choice Service Station (211 Bussell Highway, Margaret River, WA 6285) Mid week & Saturday evenings for takeway dishes made especially for you & your family.

Follow the PastArtisan socials for the latest locations and times, HOT TIP! Text your order ahead to 0423 876 035 to jump the queue. 

PastArtisan is also available for catering, weddings, events, and wholesale by request.

Best ways to support PastArtisan:

• Visit the pop-up location / food trailer, try the deliciousness for yourself, and enjoy a chat with Andrea whilst he makes magic happen!
• Grab packs of fresh or frozen pasta to take home from local stockists or direct
• Book them for your next special occasion — imagine your wedding or party guests enjoying handcrafted fresh pasta & real deal italian cuisine made with love!
• Become a stockist

Contact: 0423 876 035 to talk directly with Chef Andrea.