Macau Lifestyle
  • What's On

    Categories

    • Events Calendar
    • Macau Weekend
    • Monthly Hotlist
    • Giveaways
    • Entertainment

    Recent Stories

    Vida RIca Bar Hot Dog Pop Up with Drink from Above
    Weekender: Wine & Dine, Cultural Happenings & More
    Macau Weekend
    100 Years Afternoon Tea The St Regis Bar Champagne Afternoon Tea giveaway
    Win a Stylish Champagne Afternoon Tea for Two at The St. Regis Bar Macao
    Giveaways
    A Unique Taste of Baijiu at St Regis Macao
    Weekender: Dining, Cocktails, Exhibitions & More
    Macau Weekend
  • Dining

    Categories

    • Restaurants
    • Local Eats
    • Cafes
    • Bars
    • Chef Spotlight

    Recent Stories

    Champagne tea set The St Regis Bar
    100 Years Afternoon Tea at The St. Regis Bar Macao: British Traditions & New York High Life
    Bars
    caffe b italian restaurant macau lunch dishes
    New Set Menu at Caffé B Macau: What’s for Lunch?
    Dining
    Mandarin Oriental, Macau_The Mandarin Cake Shop_Signature Cake_Pink Bloom
    That Takes the Cake! The Mandarin Cake Shop’s Cakes for Every Taste
    Cafes
  • Lifestyle

    Categories

    • Wellness
    • Weddings
    • Family
    • People

    Recent Stories

    Sheraton Fitness
    Best Hotel Gym Memberships in Macau
    Wellness
    Cartier LOVE necklace_18K pink gold
    Valentine’s Day Gift Guide for the Women in Your Life
    Lifestyle
    macau day trips ocean park hong kong
    Best Day Trips for the Whole Family
    Family
  • Culture

    Categories

    • Arts
    • Heritage & History
    • Architecture
    • Artist Spotlight
    • Local Knowledge

    Recent Stories

    Cheong Kin Man Nighttime Facing the Camera
    Cheong Kin Man: The Story Listener in Search of New Narratives
    Artist Spotlight
    Portuguese Consulate that was a Hospital Right Angle Macao Archives
    Portuguese Heritage: From Catholic Hospital to Diplomatic Institution
    Culture
    Macau Youth Street Dance Association single shot x Macau Lifestyle
    Macau Youth Street Dance Association: Jarvis Mo on the Local Dance Scene
    Arts
  • Style

    Categories

    • Fashion
    • Jewelry & Watches
    • Beauty
    • Home

    Recent Stories

    Macau Lifestyle Morpheus Spa_Couple Spa Suite_02
    Best Facial Treatments in Macau
    Beauty
    CHLOE Mini Daria bag in Muted Brown
    Christmas Gift Ideas for the Women in Your Life
    Lifestyle
    Amalfi Coast coffee table books
    Inspiring Coffee Table Books for Your Home
    Home
  • Travel

    Categories

    • Macau
    • China
    • Asia
    • Oceania
    • Europe

    Recent Stories

    hong kong junk Day Trips Macau
    Best Day Trips from Macau
    Asia
    macau day trips ocean park hong kong
    Best Day Trips for the Whole Family
    Family
    kun iam ecumenic centre macau
    Weekend Walking Tour of Macau Peninsula’s Alternative Cultural Sites
    Culture
  • Hong Kong

    Categories

    • What's On
    • Dining
    • Things to Do
    • Hotels

    Recent Stories

    St. Regis Hong Kong, Premier Harbour Room 08
    Best Staycation Packages in Hong Kong
    Hong Kong
    Kerry Hotel Hong Kong
    Wake Up Here: Kerry Hotel, Hong Kong
    Hong Kong
    Chen tianzhuo
    Chen Tianzhuo: Meshing Visual & Performance Art
    Artist Spotlight
  • Events
  • City Guide
  • 繁中
Dining
11 September, 2020
by Ksenia Kuzmina

Cristiano Cannata of Caffé B: How to Turn Challenges into Success

cris-caffe-b-Cannata-macau-wine-glass

Every guest who frequently dines at Caffé B, Macau’s Italian restaurant with a stunning view of the Nam Van Lake, can hardly imagine this place without Cristiano Cannata. Greeting guests with a charming smile six days a week, Caffé B’s manager has turned it into a well-known and successful family-style restaurant that is fully booked even during harder times such as 2020. How did he manage to lead the team through the challenges to achieve fortune? We sat down with Cristiano and asked him about Italian heritage, people skills, and becoming a lumberjack in Canada!

Many people around the world love Italian cuisine and going to Italian restaurants. Why do you think that is?

I believe it’s because of the variety and quality of the products. Also, the Mediterranean diet is among the world’s healthiest, so that is one more reason. 

Moreover, Italy is a country with a strong history of immigration. Italians left Italy and brought Italian food everywhere they went, so it became popular internationally.

Good point. How hard is it to run an Italian restaurant outside of Italy? What are the main challenges? 

I left Italy in 2001. First, I lived in New York for ten years, which became the hardest and most challenging school for me. It’s extremely demanding. You always have to be on top. After that, I lived in Turkey, Abu Dhabi, Thailand, Laos, and eventually came to Macau. So I’ve dealt with thousands of different people and learned people’s needs. Let’s say, what a New Yorker needs is not what a Turkish person needs. You learn to adapt to a situation and make your customer feel comfortable. As a manager, you are in the position of taking care, not serving. Since the beginning, I learned how to put myself in my customer’s shoes, that’s the secret. 

Then, there are the products. You need to keep the standard and choose the suppliers carefully. 

Would you say it is hard to keep the restaurant authentic so far from its place of origin? 

Not if you choose the right team. Apart from that, everything that we serve is tested before it ends up on the plates. It would help if you had a balance. As we work in Asia, we have to adapt Italian cuisine to Asian tastes. For example, we make the seasoning lighter as Asians prefer their food less seasoned. At the same time, we don’t have pizza with pineapple!

cris-outside-caffe-b-macau

So what would you say is more important, keeping it authentic or answering the demand?

Authenticity. And the numbers talk to prove it. 

You have a rather international team at Caffé B. You are from Italy, your chef is from Japan, and there are team members from the Philippines and Macau. How do you successfully manage it? 

Our cultural differences don’t really get in the way. We are working together as a team. I am nobody without my team; we discuss everything; we share problems. I always accept suggestions and listen to complaints. We spend more time together than with our families, so you need to maintain trust. 

How would you describe your management style? 

I’m a 100% democratic leader. I don’t consider myself a Napoleon and don’t mind cleaning dirty dishes. The customer comes first. Everything we have achieved at Caffé B is from our team effort.

How does Caffé B stand out from the rest of the competition? How did you grow your loyal customer base? 

Most of the restaurants I consider competitors are inside integrated resorts or hotels. Of course, we cannot compete with them in terms of marketing. Since I came here four years ago, I built a strong relationship with local customers. Now Caffé B is full almost every day, 90% of our customers visit us at least once a week, and kids ask their parents to see Uncle Cris. 

Caffé B is more than a restaurant. It is a family. So during the pandemic, when everyone is stuck in Macau, this approach helped us survive and keep the business successful.

In a nutshell, it’s about the quality of food, price, and customer service. Customers don’t come back if they don’t feel welcome. Thus, I make sure they do. Of course, it’s not just me; I’m only one slice of the whole cake. 

CaffeB-7

However, you won’t argue that you represent Caffé B. You are always there, and your personality has become somewhat a part of the brand, do you agree? 

I do, yes. 

Why is it essential for you to be present and interact with guests? 

It’s a fundamental part. To do this job, you need to be social, be around your guests. The moment I start to hate people, I’ll need to change my job, move to Canada, and become a lumberjack. Sometimes I wish so!

At least, you already have a beard! So what stops you from giving up?

Right (laughs). Well, you need to know what you are doing. Working when people are celebrating and having a good time during Christmas, holidays, and others can be tough. You need to love your job, and I do. I enjoy being around people. If you put me in an office, that would kill me. I know most of our guests. You know, Caffé B was empty one day in the last few months–it was my wedding day and everyone was there. 

I love my job and Macau. I’ve partied enough in my life, so now I’m focused on making Caffé B successful, progress, and grow. 

What’s your typical day like?

My working time starts at 10:30am when I check emails at home. Around 11:30am, I arrive at the restaurant, check the reservations, and make sure everything is ready. We open at noon, then at 3:00pm–3.30pm I go home and relax a bit. Then I come back for dinner time, where we reopen at 6:00pm, and I’m here till we close, six days a week. God worked for six days, so why should I do seven? 

cris-caffe-b-macau sitting down

Fair enough! You spend a lot of time at work. What would you describe as the most memorable or proud moment during your time at Caffé B? 

There have been so many. I have become a member of the Chaine des Rotisseurs which is very satisfying. What makes me proud is that I took over a restaurant that wasn’t that popular and turned it into a successful one. As we say in Italy, Rome wasn’t built in one day. The journey that I’ve had here makes me immensely proud–coming to the restaurant, checking the computer, and seeing the full house. 

Let’s talk a little about the challenges of 2020. How did you adjust to the new reality? 

Overall, we have been lucky. At first, we suffered in February during the lockdown. Then we worked a couple of weeks just for takeaway and delivery. When we reopened, people showed up little by little once they felt safe. Our strategy paid off, as we target the locals, not tourists. We suffered initially, but after we were able to manage it and now we are busy. We didn’t have to lay off any of the staff, didn’t change the menu or adjust prices. It’s what we had been working on for years. We built a small yet solid restaurant. 

Usually, in July and August of each year, we lose some profit because people go on holiday. Not this year, though. 

When you say you target the local audience, what does it mean? How exactly do you do that?

We focus on social media. Facebook and Instagram are the most powerful advertising platforms for us. Guests come, eat, take photos, and post them online. And then we have customers showing us pictures from social media, asking if they could have the same thing. 

We are not pretending to work in a Michelin restaurant, but the presentation is essential for us. Miki (the chef) has an eye and attention to detail to create a stunning presentation. That and the visual content we post on our social media platforms play a significant role in our success. That’s how many guests find out about Caffé B. 

cris-glasses-caffe-b-macau

You also organize wine dinners occasionally. What is it like, and how can one take part in it?

We do one every month in collaboration with suppliers. These dinners are for no more than 30 people who sit together at common tables. We talk about wine and do wine pairings. Depending on which wine we present, our chef creates specific dishes. Last year we made a four seasons dinner, had a live trio playing Vivaldi while the guest enjoyed food and wine.  

But it’s not just about wine; we also organized one sake dinner that was sold out three days after we announced it. Usually, we promote these dinners on social media and newsletter. There are going to be more in autumn. A truffle season dinner is coming for sure!

Any plans you would like to share with the Macau Lifestyle audience? 

In fact, yes, we have a new lunch menu in September. Besides, there is a major dinner menu upgrade coming later on. However, our chef changes the specials every week, so technically, we have something new weekly. 

Also read: Tutto Bene: Must-Try Italian Dishes at Caffe B


Caffé B Lake View Mansion Block 1, 744-G-H Avenida Panoramica do Lago Nam Van, Macau, +853 2838 6886, www.facebook.com/Caffe-B

Photo credits: Ksenia Kuzmina, Caffé B

Tags

  • Caffe B
  • Caffe B Italian Restaurant
  • Caffe B Macau
  • Cristiano Cannata

Related Posts

Galaxy - Macallan_2
Bars

Best Places for Whiskey Lovers in Macau

Natasha Moor, Founder and CEO of Natasha Moor Cosmetics (Photographer Credits Ali G Studios)
Beauty

Natasha Moor Talks About the Empowering Beauty of Make-Up

Macau Lifestyle Florilege IMG_chef2
Chef Spotlight

Redefining The Art of French Cuisine With Chef Hiroyasu Kawate of Florilège

Halo Halo Anak Philipino Dessert Macau Lifestyle
Dining

Top To-Try Filipino Desserts In Macau

Trending Posts

Macau Weekend, What's On

Weekender: Wine & Dine, Cultural Happenings & More

100 Years Afternoon Tea The St Regis Bar Champagne Afternoon Tea giveaway
Giveaways

Win a Stylish Champagne Afternoon Tea for Two at The St. Regis Bar Macao

Portuguese pastries Macau pao lo ovar
Dining, Local Eats

Where to Find the Best Portuguese Pastries in Macau

Artist Spotlight, Culture

Cheong Kin Man: The Story Listener in Search of New Narratives

  • Editor's Picks

    100 Years Afternoon Tea The St Regis Bar Champagne Afternoon Tea giveaway Giveaways

    Win a Stylish Champagne Afternoon Tea for Two at The St. Regis Bar Macao

    Macau Lifestyle has partnered with The St. Regis Macao for a fabulous giveaway where the winners can have an extravagant afternoon tea!

    LondonerMainLR Hotels

    Unveiling The Londoner Macao: The Newest Jewel in Cotai’s Crown

    The Londoner Macao is a unique addition to the vibrant skyline of Macau meticulously designed, making it a true celebration of timeless British design.

    chef sebastien bernie holding pink bloom cake mandarin oriental macau Chef Spotlight

    Of Cakes & Fitness: Mandarin Oriental, Macau’s Pastry Chef Sebastien Bernis

    We asked Mandarin Oriental, Macau’s pastry chef Sebastien Bernis to share which cakes sell the best, how he leads his team and more!

    Cuppa Coffee Macau Dining

    Good Morning Macau: Best Cafes for Breakfast

    As breakfast is the most important meal of the day, here’re our favorite cafes in Macau to head to for a hearty breakfast!

    Mandarin Oriental, Macau_The Mandarin Cake Shop_Signature Cake_Pink Bloom Cafes

    That Takes the Cake! The Mandarin Cake Shop’s Cakes for Every Taste

    The Mandarin Cake Shop’s cakes will make your heart beat faster and complement any ocassion! Don’t believe us? Try it for yourself!

    taipa village stairs ksenia kuzmina Macau good news 2020 Culture

    Macau Recap: Good Things That Happened in 2020

    This 2020 has not been all grim and dark.Here’s some of the happy and optimistic news and events that happened in Macau this year!

    Chef Daniel brooker sofitel macau at ponte 16 portrait meat Chef Spotlight

    Around the World in 14 Years: Sofitel Macau’s Executive Chef Daniel Brooker

    We talked with executive chef Daniel Brooker of Sofitel Macau at Ponte 16 about his achievements and Sofitel’s role on the gastronomy map.

    hiro ramen venetian macau lifestyle Dining

    Get Warm: Best Ramen Spots in Taipa

    We have composed a list of the best ramen spots in Taipa to warm your heart and soul, the Japanese way, with a hot bowl of ramen!

    Sichuan Moon Chinese Restaurant Macau Dining

    The Most Outstanding Chinese Restaurants in Macau

    We’ve dedicated this page to the best restaurants serving Chinese food that entices even the most discerning palates from all over the world.

    Cotai Picture Wide Macau Lifestyle Macau

    10 Free Things to Do in Macau

    Glamorous and buzzing Macau has a lot to offer even for those on a shoe-string budget. Find out the coolest and free things to do in Macau.

    Coloane hiking trail Culture

    Guide to Coloane’s Hiking Trails

    Coloane is home to most of the hiking trails in town. We walked them all and came up with the most comprehensive Coloane hiking trails guide.

    AJ Hackett Macau Skywalk giveaway Macau Lifestyle Local Knowledge

    Everything You Need to Do in Macau at Least Once

    Take a dive into this article and find out what to do to spend your precious time in Macau and maximize it to enjoy the city at its fullest!

    African Chicken from Riquexo Macau Lifestyle Dining

    Macanese Craze: Where to Get African Chicken in Macau

    African chicken is a truly Macanese dish, even though it doesn’t sound so. We’ve toured Macau looking for the best and here they are!

    ramen pro macau lifestyle Dining

    Delicious Ramen Spots in Macau

    A hot bowl of Japanese ramen would surely satisfy any noodle craving. Slurp away at these ramen places in Macau!

    Collage of Calcada do Amparo Area Wall Paintings Macau Lifestyle Arts

    Colorful Macau: Best Street Art Hotspots

    Looking for something different to discover in the city? Explore the lesser travelled paths of Macau to find stunning local street art.

    The Moss Natural Life - handmade soaps sustainable shopping macau Wellness

    Sustainable Shopping in Macau

    If you are looking for places to shop for packaging-free, eco-friendly and sustainable items in Macau, here is a good list to embark on your journey.

    quarter square coffee on table exterior Dining

    The Ultimate Guide to Macau’s Best Coffee Shops

    Coffee makes the world go round and even if you don’t fancy it, it definitely brings people together so here are the best coffee shops in Macau!

    10-things-to-do-in-coloane-chapel-francis-xavier Culture

    10 Beautiful Catholic Churches in Macau

    Other than the glitz of the casinos and hotels, the beautiful Catholic churches show a different, historical side of Macau.

    Zics Macau Brand Source Facebook page Fashion

    Macau Fashion Brands: Celebrate Local Design

    Discover some Macau fashion brands that are making waves due to the fabulous designers behind each of their fresh and genius creations.

    The Cheesecake Factory Macao pancakes Cafes

    Great Places for Pancakes in Macau

    Looking for pancake places around Macau? Hunting for butter-browned, soft and fluffy pancakes? We think you’ll be satisfied with our list!

    The Ritz-Carlton Bar & Lounge Gin Collection Bars

    Best Places for Happy Hour in Macau

    After a long day at work, you need a relaxing place to unwind. We have the best places in Macau for happy hour deals on drinks and snacks!

    Waffles with Coffee at Rooftop Macau Exterior Macau Lifestyle Cafes

    Best Waffle Spots in Macau

    Best shared with your friends or perhaps on a first date, here are the best waffle places in Macau for your next catch up session.

    Maria do Leste Bloody Mary from St Regis Macao Updated Photo 2020 Bars

    Shaken or Stirred: Macau’s Best Cocktails

    The world of mixology often proves to be as diverse and surprising as the one of gastronomy. Exercising talent and immense creativity, Macau’s bartenders keep creating signature cocktails that impress us with both flavors and presentation. If you are tired and bored with mojitos and negronis and need tips on what else to try, check out our guide to Macau’s best cocktails. 

    Macau Youth Street Dance Association single shot x Macau Lifestyle Arts

    Macau Youth Street Dance Association: Jarvis Mo on the Local Dance Scene

    We speak to Jarvis Mo, the president of the Macau Youth Street Dance Association, about the street dance culture in Macau, and more!

  • About
  • The Team
  • Advertise
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms and Conditions
  • Contact Us

COPYRIGHT © 2021 • MACAU LIFESTYLE

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Receive Macau Events Agenda, the Hottest Giveaway Offers and the Latest Article Updates!

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.Ok