Carlos Capparelli

Background and Early Influences

Carlos Capparelli’s rich culinary heritage is rooted deeply in his Brazilian and Italian lineage. Growing up surrounded by the alluring aromas of his mother’s catering business and the bustling atmosphere of his father’s restaurant, Carlos was destined for a life centred around food. “Food has always been a central part of my life. My earliest memories are filled with the smells of my mother’s kitchen and the lively energy of my father’s restaurant,” Carlos recalls. His family’s passion for cooking instilled in him a love for the kitchen from a very young age.

A Culinary Adventure Across Continents

Carlos’s journey began to take shape when he moved to Spain at the age of 24. Here, he immersed himself in the vibrant culinary scene, working in various bars and honing his skills in creating traditional tapas and other Spanish delicacies.

After two enriching years in Spain, Carlos relocated to London, where he spent the next twelve years refining his craft in some of the city’s most prestigious kitchens. Notably, he worked at Gordon Ramsay’s Maze Grill for seven months and at Harrods’ Spanish Tapas Bar. His most significant tenure was at Ottolenghi, where he spent a decade developing his skills and eventually becoming the Executive Chef, overseeing operations and further solidifying his expertise. “Working at Ottolenghi was a transformative experience. It was there that I really developed my skills and learned the intricacies of running a high-end kitchen,” Carlos shares.

Educational Pursuits and Culinary Mastery

While working in London, Carlos pursued formal education in the culinary arts. He completed a Foundation Degree in Culinary Arts and Food Science, which encompassed three years of practical kitchen experience and two years of theoretical studies, including marketing. This education not only enhanced his culinary skills but also equipped him with the knowledge to market and manage a culinary business effectively. “Balancing work and education was challenging but incredibly rewarding. The knowledge I gained has been invaluable in running my own business,” says Carlos.

Establishing Capparelli in Newtownards

Carlos’s journey eventually led him to East Belfast with his wife, where he decided to channel his extensive experience and passion into his own venture, Capparelli. Driven by a desire to work independently and share his culinary creations, Carlos began by producing and selling Italian-themed ready meals such as Harissa Mushroom Pasta and Lasagne. The positive feedback from customers was overwhelming, inspiring him to expand his offerings to include fresh, authentic artisan Italian pasta and a selection of desserts. “The feedback from our customers has been incredibly encouraging. It’s what pushed me to expand our product range,” Carlos notes.

Rapid Growth and Expansion

The success of Capparelli has been nothing short of remarkable. The business has rapidly grown, leading to an expansion into the Old Mill in Dundonald. This development, while temporarily halting the production of the highly sought-after ready meals, has allowed Carlos to focus on his pasta products, which are now available in various local businesses. These include Indie Food in Comber and on the Ormeau Road, as well as the Guillemot in Bangor.

A Thriving Community at Strangford Park

Carlos expresses how the convenient location and the camaraderie among fellow tenants at Strangford Park have made it an ideal base for his business operations. The ease of commuting between Belfast and Newtownards has further facilitated the smooth running of his business. “Strangford Park is more than just a business location; it’s a community. The support and camaraderie here have made coming to work so much more enjoyable,” Carlos remarks.

Looking Ahead

Carlos is deeply grateful for the unwavering support from his loyal customers, which has been instrumental in the growth of Capparelli. As he continues to expand and innovate, he remains committed to delivering high-quality, authentic Italian cuisine to his growing customer base. “The support from our customers has been overwhelming. It motivates us to keep creating and delivering the best possible products,” Carlos states.

For more information about Capparelli and to explore their delicious offerings, visit Capparelli’s website.