Artisan handmade pasta in the Hawke’s Bay, Danny's Pasta, specialise in freshly made long and short pasta. Danny chatted with the team about developing a passion for making pasta after spending two summers in Italy and having a great relationship with local restaurants and catering companies.
What is your company background, how did you start your business?
"I have been cheffing at some of Hawke’s Bays finest winery restaurants and renowned catering company Orton Tailored Cuisine for over 14 years. Four years ago I spent two summers in Italy learning Italian cuisine where I developed the passion for making pasta and was lucky enough to learn from the best, Paolo Pancotti, at the traditional resort hotel in Salo. After one year being back in New Zealand I started making small orders for local restaurants and catering companies and in the last seven months, I have been selling my fresh pasta at the Hawke’s Bay Farmers Market in Hastings on a Sunday morning."
What are the current product range and variants and how do these products stand out in the market?
"Durum semolina pure flour is my chosen flour to use for my pasta, and it gives the pasta a silkier and nuttier flavour producing a quality product.
At the farmers market, I specialise in fresh long pasta such as fettuccine, pappardelle, spaghetti and linguini, and short pasta such as shell, penne, lily and fusilli.
I have a great relationship with local restaurants and catering companies where they can supply their own unique fillings for stuffed pasta such as ravioli and tortellini."
Has there been any new company news?
"Over the last two months, I have introduced gluten-free options to restaurants and the farmers market which has been received very well. Having a group of friends who were gluten-free was a great help in assisting me with getting the texture, flavour and cooking time right."
What are the plans for the business moving forward? Is there any expansion on the horizon?
Danny works for a highly acclaimed Hawke’s Bay catering company whilst developing and growing new business for the future.
"Ideally, I would like to expand the restaurant and continue to build the farmers market side of the business. Already customers at the farmers market flock in to get their weekly order of quality fresh pasta."
Where are your products currently available to buy, and are you looking at or wanting to expand your availability? If so, where would you like to see the product situated?
"You will find me at the Hastings Farmers Market on Sunday mornings, or if you have any catering or restaurant enquiries, please find me on Facebook, Danny's Pasta, email me on dannyspasta@hotmail.com or phone 027 3118292."
