A Huge Missed Steak: Delicious, Colorful, Pun-Filled Plant Based Empire with/ Mark Filippelli

18 restaurants, feeding countless A-List celebrities and leading the plant based food scene sounds like the making of a riddle, but is the reality of our guests Mark. Over the years we've all heard the term plant based but what does it actually mean? Can it actually be good enough that it's highly sought after by foodies worldwide? A health crisis transformed Mark's relationship with food forever. After receiving a rare blood cancer diagnosis, he immersed himself in nutritional research while undergoing treatment. What emerged was not just a personal healing journey but the foundation for culinary innovation that would reshape Australia's plant-based dining landscape.Mark's approach is refreshingly approachable. Through his 18 restaurants  across Melbourne, Sydney, and Byron Bay—he aspires to create vibrant spaces where food brings people together without dietary labels creating division.His debut cookbook, "This Cookbook is a Huge Mistake" (named after a neon sign in one of his restaurants) emerged during Australia's lengthy COVID lockdowns. Quarantined alone in a hotel room for two weeks, Mark reflected on his culinary journey, documenting recipes and life lessons that had shaped his path. The result combines practical plant-based techniques with personal stories and his trademark pun-filled humor.Beyond business success, Mark's most treasured accomplishment is the community he's built—including unexpected friendships with the Hemsworth family, who began as regular customers and became devoted supporters. Through beautiful, thoughtful food that momentarily transports guests away from daily stress, Mark reminds us that gathering around a table is ultimately about connection, not just nutrition.Try something from this cookbook. Your taste buds will thank you, and you might just find yourself reimagining what plant-based eating can be.This Episode is Sponsored by: Travel with Stephani- Are you looking to plan a vacation for your family this Summer? Get access to unique deals, exclusive access and save HOURS on research by working with a travel agent. It doesn't cost you anything at all but saves you loads of stress. Sounds like a dream right? Reach out to her here and on socials @travelwithstephani to learn more about booking a trip to Sandals, Beaches, Disney & more! Support the show