Shane Delia

Shane prides himself on his original culinary style that stems from the eclectic influences that have surrounded him both personally and professionally. Growing up in a large Maltese family, food was more than just a meal; it was a chance for the whole family to gather around and enjoy a meal and each other’s company. This shared dining experience is something that Shane has mastered in his venues.

Through travel and family experiences Shane became aware of the many similarities between his own Maltese upbringing and culture, with those of his inherited Middle Eastern neighbours across the Mediterranean. He began to investigated the origins of Maltese cuisines history and experimented with fusing Middle Eastern and Maltese food, with the outcome being the ideology behind Maha Bar and Grill, which he opened in March 2008.

Shane’s rise in the culinary world continues with the opening of his second restaurant in Melbourne, St Katherine’s with business partner George Calombaris. St Katherine’s embraces a contemporary sharing style menu, with a melding of Modern Greek, Turkish and Middle Eastern cultures and food. Defined by its custom made Turkish coal fuelled grill and a wood fired oven, St Katherine’s is the place where the long time friends are bringing together their family histories, cultures and cuisines.

To add to an already exciting 2011, Shane’s first cookbook Maha Middle Eastern Home Cooking was released on 31 October, 2011. With filming about to start on Shane’s new cooking and travel show which will air nationally on SBS, 2012 promises to be another ground breaking year with endless opportunity and excitement for Shane Delia.

Shane is a regular fixture in the MORNINGS kitchen with Sonia and David.

Follow Shane on Twitter @Shane Delia

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