The Story of Us
your neighborhood Italian, with a touch of Japan
Chef Shoichi Ueda started his career in a hectic Italian restaurant in Akasaka, Tokyo – serving authentic dishes to crowds of hungry office workers during the lunch rush hour.
Seeking to Understand the origins of Italian cuisine, he travelled extensively across Italy, discovering that true Italian flavours are seasonal, regional, and deeply diverse – from the fresh seafood of the southern coast to the rib-sticking hearty stews of the mountainous north.
Today, in Australia, he shares the knowledge and experience he has gained, offering simple yet refined Italian cuisine, enhanced with a Japanese flourish.
Having spent time working in a number of industries over the last decade, Leigh has followed his passion into the world of great food, coffee and wine.
Early in 2017, Leigh and his wife Jodie took over ownership of Cornerstone & Co café in Hampton and have been embraced by the community. Learning very quickly that this industry is all about quality food and great people. An overseas honeymoon in 2015 through Tuscany and the south of Italy, cemented the Italian cuisine as Leigh and Jodie’s favourite.
Osteriya is Leigh’s second venture, this time partnering with the extensive culinary experience of Head Chef Shoichi Ueda.
