Sarti Restaurant Bar

Michael Badr

Restaurant Manager & Owner

Michael’s career within the hospitality industry began at café Vini Spuntini, working under the renowned Maurice Terzini as a barista and waiter.

In 2002 Terzini approached Michael to manage the busy café full time. Over three years Michael realised his penchant for Italian food and worked hard with an ambition to own his own restaurant.

Winter 2005 Michael’s obsession for Italian cuisine and wine took him to Europe. Michael travelled to learn the philosophy behind Italy’s enthralling food & wine history.

Late 2005 Michael worked under successful entrepreneur Joe Mammone as a waiter, at his newest venture, Sarti. From a new world of Italian wines, the importance of customers, to the complex teachings of running a business – Joe’s unprecedented experience taught Michael how to manage a restaurant.

In 2008 Riccardo Momesso took over the Sarti kitchen and taught Michael fundamentals of perfecting menu balance and managing a diverse team. Hunting and gathering excursions with Riccardo educated Michael about fresh produce and the importance of food sustainability.

Michael’s commitment and passion was recognized by the industry at The Young Guns Dinner in 2009, he was then appointed maitre de of the event. At just 26 years of age, Michael was on the fast track to becoming a respected restauranter, within Melbourne's well established hospitality scene.

In 2011 Michael was invited by Sarti’s partners Joe Mammone and Riccardo Momesso of Sarti to join in partnership. Working together the trio at Sarti, have now received three consecutive hats in the Age Good Food Guide Awards 2009, 2010 & 2011.