Brazilian-born Nani Denardin dreamed of a time when she would create a community space where people would gather together and share in the joy of food.
Now, locals of Nile St can pop down and enjoy an acai smoothy bowl, which Nani says you can’t find anywhere else in Nelson, or the head chef Rodel Gozo’s signature dish - pulled pork and poached egg served on waffles.
But the road to the ‘Function Room’ has not been entirely smooth sailing.
After arriving in New Zealand almost 20 years ago, Nani fell in love with her partner Mike in Auckland in 2005.
They set off and travelled the world together, working in top hotels and restaurants before returning to set up on their own.
A stint in Lake Tahoe gave them the opportunity to ski and save money.
“We did a lot of travelling, including an American coast-to-coast road trip and travelled around Europe. You have to be very disciplined working in hospitality, but I think my accent helped with tips.”
Spotting the Prince Albert business for sale 10 years ago, they headed south to settle in Nelson.
“It was a business we could run together … We’ve been each other’s bosses before and it worked very well.” Nani says.
Mike and Nani now manage 20 employees across three businesses - the Function Room, The Prince Albert, and Bridge Backpackers.
And locals are flocking to the Function Room in the spirit it was intended.
A fire in the couple’s house, caused by a malfunctioning heater, and the Covid-19 pandemic along with Nani battling cancer, have been some hurdles to overcome. They also had a baby girl during that period, who is now 4-years-old.
“We made it through the pandemic and a few other life hiccups. It puts life in a different perspective.”
During the Covid-19 level 3 lockdown Mike and Nani served takeaway coffee through a window, which was a hit with locals.
“We had such great feedback from the community.”
And of the cafe concept, Nani says she wants to create a space where everyone in the neighbourhood feels joyous to get together in a unique space, with delicious coffee and food.
“We all love to be social in our own neighbourhood, and after the pandemic we deserve it.”
Trained in gastronomy, Nani has been producing and selling intricately-piped cupcakes since searching for a hobby between chemo sessions which will soon make an appearance at The Function Room.
“We have amazing staff and are quite proud of having the same smiling faces working together.”
The Function Room is open Monday to Friday on Nile St.
