Christiana Panarello, Eleni's Kouzina - Get to know a Griffith Local

FAMILY VALUES: Christiana Panarello has helped turn her Mum’s delicious home-style cooking into a sought-after catering service.

Name: Christiana Panarello

Occupation: Caterer and Marketing Management.

What do you actually do?
I work alongside my mum in our family run business, Eleni’s Kouzina. We cater for all occasions; private and corporate. I take part in the cooking and baking aspects of the business as well as overseeing the marketing aspects.

How long have you been in the business?
I have been in the hospitality scene for 4-5 years, however, my mum has always been in the food industry as she grew up in Fish and Chips. My great-great-grandmother catered for weddings in her village in Cyprus which I like to think has influenced each generation of our family since, as then my great-grandparents were in the Takeaway industry once moving to Australia, which then resulted in my grandparents and now aunties and uncles also being in the industry specifically fresh seafood and fish and chips. Generations before me were also involved in fresh produce and bakeries. One way or another I’ve always been surrounded and apart of the food industry.

How did you get started?
Eleni’s Kouzina all started from one local lady asking my mum if she would make the Biscotti and Cannoli for her daughters wedding and from there our business and services have expanded.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out?
If you’ve set your mind to it, you can do it. Don’t listen to the opinions of others because the only one who can stop you is yourself.

How would your friends describe you?
Creative - I like to try new things and experiment in the kitchen.

Tell me about where you grew up and what your family life was like.
I grew up here in Griffith. Both my parents have always had a strong work ethic; both working 7 days a week as well as being very family orientated, my brothers and I spent a lot of time running around our grandparents farm, I was also lucky enough to learn how to make many things with my grandmother in her kitchen. I also spent a lot of time travelling to visit family in QLD where I spent time alongside my grandparents and great uncle at my grandfather’s Kafenio which was a Taverna-style establishment where members of the Greek and Cypriot community would regularly meet and socialise over food and beverages.

Who have been your strongest influences in life?
While my grandparents and parents have been major influences I think my mum is my strongest influence, she puts her all into anything that is thrown her way.

Is there a charity or cause you prefer to support if/when possible?
As a family business we donate and take part in many local charities and events.

What has been the hardest thing for you to learn?
Time Management and to take things as they come.

What's your favorite food?
Pasta! I could eat it everyday.

Favorite place to holiday?
America.

Eleni’s Kouzina can be found on Facebook and Instagram.

Donuts made by Eleni’s Kouzina