Our Story
Our Founder
My name is Salve Basile and I am a first-generation New Zealander born in Island Bay, Wellington. My parents immigrated from Italy in 1960’s and I was raised in old Italian style and Italian was my first language. I grew up watching my mother cook lots of yummy Italian foods from doughnuts, to pizza, pasta dishes, mozzarella cheese and lots more.
Our Origin
The Real Italian Doughnuts recipe comes from my parent’s village in Southern Italy called Massa Lubrense. This is where many wonderful Italian recipes come from. Over the last 25 years I have grown a real passion for cooking Italian food. I believe it is very important these wonderful recipes are not lost.
Our Inspiration
My mother made these amazing doughnuts for special occasions as they took a long time to make, they were well worth the long wait as they are so delicious. The doughnut has always been a favourite of mine and this is my take on my mother’s recipe. I love being able to share these wonderful doughnuts with my family and friends and doughnut lovers everywhere.
The Doughnut
The Italian name for these delicious doughnuts is Zeppole Di Patate. Zeppole is an exquisite result of a yeast base dough that is made with flour and potatoes, which makes them a soft, light and airy doughnut.
Our Beginnings
We launched our mobile food trailer in Tauranga in February 2015.
June 2016, demand led us to explore the option of producing a wholesale box. After finding a suitable manufacture and undertaking lots of research and development we launched our first wholesale box.
These wonderful original (plain) doughnuts can be found when you order your next dessert from
Cobb & Co or Lone Star restaurants all over NZ.
"I am grateful that I can bring these wonderful doughnuts to you. I just want everyone to taste what I had growing up."
- Salve Basile
Growing to Greater Strengths
October 2025, look out for our new Bombolinis, the filled Italian doughnuts that taste absolutely delicious.
2 Flavors available: Apple Curd or Key Lime Custard
These doughnuts come in 1kg frozen bags, really easy to use, just thaw heat and serve
Currently available to purchase from Bidfood or Service Foods, or if you live in Tauranga, you can also pick these up from our home based office/ shop in Papamoa.
Our Values
Story Telling
To live the story of our doughnuts – bringing to life the Italian connection, the family speciality, creating the image of Italian colour and vibrancy.
Helpful and Personal
To always have a “can do” attitude in everything we do, and provide our customers and customers with a personal service second to none. Ensuring that everyone has a smile and feels that we care.
Flexible
The ability to adjust to meet the needs of our clients – every event is different and special.
Quality Products
Providing a quality doughnut which means learning how they are meant to look, feel and taste. Ensuring that every doughnut handled our meets our expectations.
Innovative
The ability to look outside the square and see possibilities for change or improvement.
