I’ve been visiting Lulu La Delizia for so long it feels like it’s always been there. You know the type? Your perfect neighbourhood restaurant that ALWAYS feels like home and never fails to exceed expectations.
It's here that I first met Joel Valvasori-Pereza, the talented owner, operator, chef, host, and dab hand at creating artwork—seriously, this guy wears so many hats!
Joel named Lulu’s in honour of his Nonna, and the restaurant is a beautiful tribute to her culinary traditions, which are the heart and soul of the place. His passion for hospitality shines through in everything, from the carefully curated amaro selection and stellar wine list to the meticulous craftsmanship in every single pasta dish. His unwavering dedication to sourcing the best local produce and providing flawless 'old school' service makes every visit special.
A meal at Lulu’s is always heartwarming, satisfying, and downright delicious + it’s always a real treat to chat with supremely talented and genuine Joel, a true gentleman in the culinary world.
Where were you born?
Perth
Where do you live?
North Perth
What inspires you here?
The pace of life and cleanliness.
Describe yourself in 3 words:
I don’t know.
Describe the Western Australia in 3 words:
Sunny, chilled, clean.
Tell us about what you do?
I get the job done.
What does a normal day look like for you?
It’s long.
What does a perfect day look like for you?
I don’t need to talk to anyone, and I can paint with a bottle of wine by my side.
Favourite places in Western Australia for:
Coffee: Stomp, North Perth.
A long lunch with friends: Home.
Dinner: Hopefully I had a great lunch and don’t need dinner.
Dancing: Who dances?
Shopping: I’m a guy. I have 30 pairs of the same boxer shorts.
A sunset drink: My back deck
Art: Everywhere. You either see it or you don’t.
Culture: In Perth?
Music: Kings Park.
Nature: Exmouth.
Favourite getaway: Rottnest.
Secret spot to explore in WA: Haven’t found it yet.
Top tip for travellers to Western Australia? Autumn is the best time of year because it’s still warm with less breezes.
An interesting fact about Joel Valvasori-Pereza… I really should have been a comedian that way my sense of humour would actually be acceptable.
Your motto to live by…
Take what you do seriously but not yourself
What are your 3 favourite restaurants in the world? The best meals are always when your expectations are exceeded.
Top 3 wines you have ever tasted? Can’t answer that one. Way too many friends in the industry.
Other local brands do you love and why? I’m so the wrong person to be asking all these questions.
Where are you travelling to next? Being a small business owner I can never plan that far ahead.
Who/what is inspiring you right now? Who’s got time for inspiration?
Favourite tunes? Khruangbin, Hermanos Gutierrez, The War on Drugs.