Welcome to the heart of Thomastown, Melbourne, where Floridia Cheese Factory stands as a beacon of artisanal cheese excellence. This isn't just a place of production; it's a narrative of tradition, a story of migration, and a celebration of the fusion between Italian heritage and Australian craftsmanship. Join us on a culinary journey as we explore the depths of Floridia's creations, a journey that transcends taste and delves into the very roots of a family's cheese-making legacy.
Our tale begins in 1952, when Mauro Montalto, his wife Carmela, and their three sons crossed continents from Sicily to Australia. Their journey brought not just a family to a new land but a rich tradition of self-sufficiency and the art of cheese making from Floridia. The Sicilian history of cheese making, bathed in sunlight and nurtured by fertile soil, found a new home in Melbourne.
The frugal peasant culture of reusing leftovers, a hallmark of the Montalto family, birthed the finest Ricotta. This sweet, smooth, and delectable creation emerged from the leftover whey, a byproduct of crafting cheeses like Bocconcini, Fresh Pecorino, and Mozzarella.
As time marched on, the torch of cheese making passed seamlessly from Mauro to the next in line. Tomasso and Angela took the reins, ensuring the legacy lived on. Now, the 3rd Generation of Montalto’s in Australia embraces the family tradition, weaving a tapestry of tradition, passion, and unwavering quality.
Picture Mauro crafting traditional Ricotta over a wood fire in his backyard for his sons. What started as a familial endeavour soon extended to neighbours, friends, and the local continental grocery. Unbeknownst to the Montalto family, these humble beginnings paved the way for one of Australia’s most esteemed cheese manufacturing businesses.
By 1955, the demand for Floridia's traditional Italian style cheese surged. In response, Mauro acquired a small factory in Bundoora, laying the foundations for Floridia Cheese. The name, an homage to his Sicilian birthplace, became synonymous with excellence. In 1998, the journey continued with another move, this time to a larger commercial site in Thomastown.
Today, Floridia Cheese proudly stands as Australia’s most respected traditional Italian cheese manufacturer, setting the industry benchmark for consistency and quality in Italian cheese products.
What sets Floridia Cheese apart is not just the taste of its products but the commitment to time-honoured traditional methods. Passion, instilled by a family steeped in the history of cheese making, permeates every step of the manufacturing process. It's the determination to uphold the highest possible standards that fuels Floridia's enduring success.
Let's take a closer look at the exquisite variety that Floridia Cheese brings to your table.
Bocconcini, the bite-sized wonders, encapsulate the freshness and purity of Floridia's cheese-making artistry. These pearls of delight elevate salads, pizzas, and antipasti to a realm of culinary satisfaction.
Crafted with precision and aged to perfection, Floridia's Fresh Pecorino is a symphony of bold, tangy, and savoury notes. This cheese elevates your taste buds to new heights, making it an essential on cheese platters and pasta dishes.
Mozzarella, a staple in Italian cuisine, is a testament to Floridia's commitment to authenticity. Melt it on pizzas, layer it in lasagnas, or enjoy it fresh with tomatoes – Floridia's Mozzarella promises a taste of Italy in every bite.
Burrata, with its creamy exterior and oozing centre, is a luxurious indulgence crafted by Floridia. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with fresh tomatoes and basil, Burrata adds a touch of opulence to your culinary escapades.
Derived from the creamy heart of Burrata, Stracciatella is an elegant addition to salads, bruschettas, or simply savoured on a crusty piece of bread. Floridia's Stracciatella is a celebration of creamy decadence.
Floridia's Ricotta is not just a cheese; it's a sweet indulgence born from tradition. Perfect for desserts, pastries, or enjoyed on its own, this Ricotta embodies the essence of Floridia's heritage.
Aged to perfection, Floridia's Pecorino Cheese is a testament to the brand's commitment to delivering excellence. Grate it over pasta, enjoy it with a glass of wine, or let it steal the show on your cheese board.
In every bite of Floridia Cheese, you aren't just experiencing the richness of Italian tradition; you are indulging in the dedication and love of a family committed to crafting the finest cheeses. As you elevate your palate with Floridia's creations, you partake in the legacy of a cheese-making dynasty that spans continents and generations.
Floridia Cheese's uniqueness lies in its blend of traditional Italian cheese-making methods, passed down through generations, and a commitment to the highest quality standards.
From a backyard operation in Bundoora in 1955 to the expansive Thomastown facility in 1998, Floridia Cheese's journey reflects its growth and success in meeting the increasing demand for traditional Italian cheese.
The Montalto family, starting with Mauro and now into the 3rd generation, has been the driving force behind Floridia Cheese. Their passion, skills, and commitment continue to shape the brand's excellence.
Floridia offers a range of cheeses, including Bocconcini, Fresh Pecorino, Mozzarella, Burrata, Stracciatella, Ricotta, and more, each crafted with precision and authenticity.
Floridia Cheese products are available for purchase at their Thomastown facility, ensuring you get the freshest taste directly from the source.
