Meet Melanie Ciccarelli of Fiamma Bella in Dedham

Today we’d like to introduce you to Melanie Ciccarelli.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Melanie. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I went to culinary school knowing I never wanted to work in a restaurant, but not knowing exactly what I wanted to do. I met a woman in Maine while still in school and she had a mobile wood fired oven. Everything she cooked in it was incredible, as was the experience of the fire and oven itself. I was immediately infatuated and decided that I had to get an oven and learn how to cook with fire!

We are starting our third season and it’s been amazing! There was (still is) a lot to learn along the way but we have come so far and have been so well received. We both feel incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to share our love of food with people who genuinely appreciate it.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
We had to learn the business part of this endeavor on the fly. Accurately preparing with minimal waste for both private and public events was a process. Learning to adjust to different temperatures and weather conditions was a challenge as well. Cooking outside means being prepared for anything and everything and the weather has a big impact on the dough, so that was a big learning process as we went along.

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Fiamma Bella – what should we know?
Using our wood fired oven to cook everything enables us to produce the most delicious tasting food. We offer not only delectable, handmade artisan pizza, but entire sit down dinners and desserts. Slow roasted beef roasts, pulled pork, various chicken dishes and roasted vegetables are all options on our intentionally small, but thoughtful menu. Our goal and passion are the same: To produce food of the highest quality, made from local, seasonal, superb ingredients.

I am incredibly proud of what we have been able to accomplish in such a short amount of time. The mental and physical effort, time and love that we have put into this venture is validated with each and every happy client. That’s what it’s all about!

Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My business partner (and life partner of 8 years) Brent has a unique and comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of our oven and how to cook with it and continues to master the art of cooking with fire. Without his support, vision and faith in me, our business would not be a reality.

We are also surrounded by family and friends who continuously give us their time and support and for whom we are truly grateful.

Contact Info:

• Website: fiammabella.com
• Phone: 617-584-9360
• Instagram: fiamma_bella
• Facebook: Fiamma Bella