Mark Munafo – Restaurant Manager

Hospitality has always been in my blood, coming from a loud, energetic Italian family. I’ve always enjoyed cooking and entertaining since a young age at home, for the simple pleasure of making family and friends happy. I studied a degree in Culinary Management at William Angliss Melbourne to develop my skills and knowledge. Whilst studying I commenced working for the Grossi family at Merchant Osteria Veneta slowly progressing into their flagship restaurant “Grossi Florentino.” I decided to gain international experience in Dubai, assisting the opening of an Italian restaurant at Trump International Golf Club Dubai which was a valuable experience, opening my eyes up to how hospitality runs in a different country. Upon my return, I was presented with a special opportunity of being Restaurant Manager of The Committee Room by Grossi. I didn’t have to think twice as the position was a blend of everything I love; sport, great food & wine and working alongside three world-class companies, Grossi Restaurants, Delaware North & MCC.

“The committee room by Grossi is our take on the European lunch clubs of old. Sophisticated, elegant and full of sprezzatura.”

The committee Room by Grossi brings the exciting opportunity to embrace a few things Melbournians love, “Exceptional Italian Food & Wine”, and a dining room with one of the most Iconic Melbournian views, ‘The hallowed MCG’, allowing guests of the public the rare opportunity to appreciate the prestigious ‘Committee Room’ on weekdays.

The committee room by Grossi is our take on the European lunch clubs of old. Sophisticated, elegant and full of sprezzatura. Showcasing the grandest of Italian cuisine, culture and style on a world class stage. Warmth and care underpin the service, teamed with a genuine Grossi welcome that brings home the sophisticated, relaxed dining experience.

If I were to pick a standout dish it would have to be ‘Abbachio alla Romana’, slow, wet roasted lamb shoulder with a parmigiano crust. My mouth is watering just thinking about it! It is a very sentimental dish within the Grossi family which makes it even more special.

The wine list focuses on Australian and Italian wines which makes sense considering the dishes use premium Australian ingredients and recipes created from traditional Italian ideas. The wine list offers something for everyone whether it be a nice crisp Italian white such as a ‘soave’, to match with our clean, fresh flavoured seafood dishes such as cured kingfish pizzaiola or tagliarini clams, a ‘Chianti Classico’ matching with ‘Abbachio alla Romana’, (wet roasted lamb) or a bold classic Australian Barossa Valley Shiraz to match with our Daily Butchers cut. I always try to steer guests out of their comfort zone to experience wines they haven’t tried before.

Our guests can expect to see a regular changing classic Italian menu with Grossi flair, embracing fresh, local seasonal produce. Our guests will therefore be able to enjoy authentic tastes of seasonal produce that comes knocking at our door. Each season comes with a plentiful array of interesting and exciting ingredients, allowing customers to capture the essence of freshness in every bite.