Who is Natalie Prestia? A 54-year-old woman who has owned Muffin Break for 11 years. I have been in hospitality for 20 years and decided to open this business. I was born in Sydney, moved to Wagga when I was 19 years old and had three children. One in Syndey, one in Melbourne and one here in Wagga with four children … so grandma. I call Wagga home now.
Best recent dining experience: Thaigaa.
Favourite cuisine: Thai.
Most embarrassing pantry item: Sliced pineapple.
What ingredient can I not live without? Hmmm … butter.
Best coffee spot in Wagga: Apart from us, I would have to say Mock Orange.
What’s your coffee blend? Jahnus. It’s our own blend.
Next big thing in the Wagga food scene: I would love to see a hatted restaurant in Wagga.
A must-try on our menu: Triple-choc muffin.
My biggest culinary influence: Italian … it’s my heritage.
Favourite cookbook: I don’t use them anymore. My best friend is a chef … so I will just say ‘What are we going to cook tonight?’
Who I admire in the Wagga food and wine scene? Tammy from Tammy’s Thai. Jamie Pascoe from Charles Sturt Winery.
What are this week’s specials at Muffin Break? Toasted sandwich, bacon egg roll and croissant with a coffee for $10.90.
Death row meal: Crumbed lamb cutlets. I had this amazing drink when I was in Bali called ‘sex on the beach’ – that would be it.
My least favourite food: Sausages.
My COVID-19 response: Everyone says it’s a cold, but it’s not. It’s just something we have to learn to live with.
My top three cooking tips: Cook with love. Use very good ingredients and always eat what you cook.