Esther Lauaki
One of the oldest restaurants in Werribee is ready to welcome families back to its tables from next week.
The much-loved La Porchetta Pacific Werribee continued to serve takeaway meals throughout the COVID-19 emergency, but will soon be taking small bookings and making a few changes in store.
From June 1, the restaurant will be open for dining-in, with strict hygiene and social distancing measures in place.
Owner Gautam Gulati says the small family-owned restaurant will be offering all its traditional Italian menu with a full bar and coffee and desserts for dine-in, takeaway and delivery.
“There will also be some changes in table bookings but one thing’s for sure – our great food and La Porchetta experience won’t be any different,” Gautam says.
“Our number one priority is making sure that our entire La Porchetta community is looked after.
“Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this situation.”
Gautam has been at the helm of La Porchetta Werribee Plaza since 2016.
While his background is in information technology, Gautam says his passion lies in business.
“I did my masters in IT and I was doing a job after my post graduation but because of my family background … in business, I also wanted to start my own business,” he says.
“I opened my first business, Pizza Hut Tarneit, as a brand new store and with all my hard work, we were in the top three stores in Victoria.
“After two years I opened my second Pizza Hut in Point Cook and that also made it into the top five.”
Like all successful business owners – Gautam is always thinking ahead.
“I always believe in giving back to community, that’s why we always support our community in one way or another,” he says.
“We are doing a complimentary Christmas lunch for everyone in need.
“It is the most special day of the year for me and my staff and gets at least 200 people in different sittings.
“I love talking to my customers and I get to know so many different things about different cultures and people
“I can’t wait to see my regular customers, that will make me so happy.”
La Porchetta, Pacific Werribee Shopping Centre, 250 Heaths Road, Hoppers Crossing. Inquiries: 9748 4888 or www.laporchetta.com
