Changes are heating up at Si Paradiso: one of Perth’s most iconic venues for Italian fare and late-night revelry is ushering in an exciting new culinary era, with the appointment of new Head Chef Larissa Gonçalves, joined by Ben Ing, former Head Chef of Copenhagen’s legendary Noma, in a mentoring and creative development role.
The duo brings serious culinary firepower to the Beaufort street institution, combining world-class technique with Si Paradiso’s signature sense of fun. And with them comes a bold new menu, rolling out this week.
Ben Ing, who led the kitchen at Noma, is helping refine the kitchen’s creative processes and pushing the team to explore new dimensions. Ing’s decision to join forces with the group behind Si Paradiso marks a major moment for the local food scene.
“Our kitchens are full of passionate emerging talent who are cooking their hearts out, breaking down barriers and are always moving forward. The way this crew is influencing the dining landscape in Perth knows no limits and I am super excited to be part of the journey.”
Gonçalves steps into the role after rising from kitchen hand to Head Chef, a testament to both her passion and the group’s culture of nurturing local talent. Her cooking is ingredient-driven, confident, and deeply rooted in seasonality and community.
“We’re building a menu that respects the seasons, but still feels generous, fun, and celebratory—like the venue itself,” she says. “WA has some of the best produce in the world and we’re excited to partner with local producers and businesses like Chu Bakery, Fins Seafood, La Delizia Latticini cheese and The Mushroom Guys to let it shine, in a venue that lives and breathes good times.”
Highlights from the new menu that draw on both chefs’ international experience and deep respect for local produce include:
- Chu Bakery croissant dough topped with sardella, corn bisque & shaved WA rock lobster
- Steak tartare with hazelnut emulsion & crispy hashbrown
- Charred leek with heart of palm, dende oil & biquinho pepper – a nod to Gonçalves’ Brazilian roots
In the courtyard, Si Paradiso keeps things playful with a refreshed Italo pub-style menu, with dishes like charcoal-grilled fish & chips, the cult-favourite short rib sando, and a cheeky new Paradiso Happy Meal: prawn toast, fries and two mini martinis.
Co-founder James Pedlow says the new direction brings ambition to the venue’s evolving food identity.
“Si Paradiso has always been about celebrating good times through food, music, and community. Larissa’s progression has been nothing short of inspiring and with someone of Ben’s calibre bringing his wealth of knowledge and creative insight, we’re stepping into an exciting new chapter.”
The new menu launches this week, with a series of events and specials to follow.
(images : supplied)
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