This spring, the village of Marananga in Barossa Valley is set to welcome a new culinary destination, as renowned chef Clare Falzon announces the opening of her latest venture, staġuni. Named after the Maltese word for ‘seasons,’ the restaurant reflects both Falzon’s heritage and her philosophy toward food and dining.
Situated along the iconic Seppeltsfield Road, amidst the towering palms, the old Marananga School is being rejuvenated to staġuni. The original schoolhouse, now repurposed into this promising eatery, marks an exciting chapter for the region known for its lush vineyards and rich gastronomic heritage.
Falzon, whose career includes stints at prestigious establishments such as Gordon Ramsay’s Maze in London, and Sydney’s Nomad, brings a wealth of experience and passion to staġuni. During her time at and Hentley Farm in South Australia, Flazon was named delicious. Magazine’s National Produce Awards Next Generation Chef of the Year in 2022.
Falzon’s vision for staġuni is deeply rooted in authenticity, creativity, and a vibrant connection to the locale. Central to this vision is a commitment to showcasing local produce and a menu that resonates with the rhythms of the seasons.
“Being a regional restaurant is instrumental to the identity of staġuni. The menu will be connected to seasonality, land and community,” Falzon explained.
“The dining room will offer a la carte and set menu items, while seating outside will accommodate afternoon drinks and snacks.”
She added, “I’m looking forward to showcasing a range of wines, both from the Barossa Valley region and broader.”
Influenced by the eateries of Europe, as well as drawing on her travel experiences in the ways in which people eat further afar, Falzon explains, the essence of staġuni is about creating more than just meals—it’s about crafting experiences that celebrate the connections people form through food. This philosophy mirrors the values ingrained in her during her upbringing in a Maltese family where food was central to communication and community.
Falzon’s approach to her new venture has also been shaped by her recent travels and culinary experiences across various Australian regions, including a residency at Bellwether Wines in Coonawarra and collaboration with highly regarded chef Annie Smithers at her Victorian restaurant Du Fermier.
“Authenticity, creativity, comfort, connection and a sense of place, is my focus, really creating a dining space which celebrates the things I admire about food and hospitality experiences. I’ve happily found myself a part of a community in the Barossa, and I’m excited to be able to build something new in the place I adore.”
Marananga School, the site for staġuni, is also witnessing a broader revitalisation. The once neglected site has been transformed by the same families responsible for successful local attractions such as Wonderground Gallery and Mirus Cellar Door. Set to open in spring 2024, it aims to breathe new life into the village with a fresh precinct of food, wine, and retail.
For locals and visitors to Barossa Valley, the opening of staġuni represents not just a new place to eat, but a destination where the community can come together in appreciation of great food, fine wine, and genuine hospitality, all cultivated by one of Australia’s most promising chefs.
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