We recently had the immense pleasure of speaking with Anthony, owner of Venturi Café to discover more about his incredible travels across the globe to make New Zealand his home.

Anthony grew up in Guangzhou, on the banks of the Pearl River in China. When he moved from this large city with a population of over 18 million to Nelson in 2009, he was overwhelmed by the fact that people would say hello to him as he passed them in the street and within a matter of days, he had developed a network of friends to help him to ‘live the dream’.

These early times in Aotearoa saw Anthony experience the warmth exuded by everyone and set him up for success in his studies. As an undergraduate embarking on a Bachelor of Commerce degree, Anthony balanced his love of learning with his work in the hospitality industry. Combining academia with extensive vocational training in baking delivered by skilled industry leaders proved to be a real recipe for success.

After graduating, Anthony was offered a position in Christchurch but following the dreadful earthquake affecting the city in 2011, the role was no longer available. Unperturbed, Anthony continued to spread his wings and, in no time at all, another role provided him with the opportunity to relocate to Dunedin and become a key store manager in the Golden Centre Mall.

Anthony’s face beamed when he said that he loves seeing the same loyal customers each day and having a chat with them about how they are doing. Anthony sees his café as a destination for people to come, feel at home and build this into their regular routines. “Loyalty is everything” says Anthony and having the chance to help provide a great start to the day for someone new or someone who is an established friend of the café means the World to him.

In your opinion what makes Venturi a fantastic café to visit?

To Anthony, Venturi Café is the epitome of friendliness where the staff members look forward to meeting customers each day and patrons can watch the World go by, while enjoying consistently tasty food and great coffee at reasonable prices.

What is a little-known fact about Venturi Café?

When Anthony was asked this question, he laughed and said that most people simply do not believe so much comes from such a modest kitchen. This small business with a huge heart actually bakes all cakes on site and meals are cooked to order from an incredibly efficient but pocket-sized operational space. Take a look over the counter when you are next in the café, and you will see what he means!