Discover the story of No22 Cafe, where passion meets culinary excellence.
No22 Cafe opened its doors on January 17th, 2023, but its roots stretch back to September 2022, when its owners, Gaetano ‘Tano’ and his wife Jess, made a bold decision to leave Sydney and start fresh in Melbourne. This journey marked the beginning of their dream to create a space where flavors from their diverse backgrounds could come together in harmony.
Gaetano grew up in the charming town of Trinitapoli, nestled in Puglia, Italy, a region celebrated for its love of food, tradition, and community. After completing his studies at a hospitality school and earning his diploma in 2011, Tano set out to explore the world. His journey took him to London, where he lived for two years, honing his skills and deepening his passion for the culinary arts. Eventually, he made his way to Sydney, where fate brought him together with Jess.
Jess, raised in Campinas, center São Paulo, Brazil, brought her vibrant cultural background and love for bold flavors into their partnership. Beyond her culinary influences, Jess infused No22 Cafe with a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it a place where everyone feels at home. Although she is a proud co-owner of No22, Jess has a background in finance and holds a degree in marketing, which she uses to skillfully manage the business side of the cafe. Her vibrant energy and dedication to creating meaningful connections with their guests have become a cornerstone of the cafe’s identity.
The two met on Melbourne Cup Day and quickly realized they shared not only a love for each other but also a dream to create something special. Not long after, they decided to move to Melbourne and invest in a venture that would bring Tano’s childhood and teenage memories to life through food and hospitality.
At No22 Cafe, every dish and every detail reflects the passion and heritage of its owners. It’s more than just a café; it’s a labor of love, born from a shared commitment to quality, community, and the simple joy of good food. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick coffee or settling in for a leisurely meal, you’ll find a warm, welcoming space where every bite tells a story.