Who we are
Welcome to Fig Branches, where our passion for Italian cuisine is expressed through the artistry of handcrafted food, fresh pasta, artisan sourdough, and a deep appreciation for locally sourced produce.
Our culinary direction is rooted in honest flavors and simple, yet elegant food, a philosophy that defines everything we do.
MEET CHEF JERRY KIM
Chef Jerry Kim, the creative force behind Foglia di Fico, hails from South Korea. His culinary journey into Italian cuisine began two decades ago, driven by a deep admiration for the simplicity and depth of Italian flavours.
Born in a countryside town surrounded by mountains, Chef Jerry Kim learned the importance of simplicity in flavour through the natural produce of the land. Our company’s direction is deeply rooted in these values, focusing on honest flavours and simple food, much like his approach.
In 2017, he brought this passion to life by establishing Foglia di Fico at Spencer St & La Trobe St in Melbourne, quickly earning a devoted following among Italian food lovers.
Chef Jerry’s approach is a unique blend of traditional Italian techniques and his meticulous organizational skills, honed through years of immersive learning from Italian chefs and his experience as a head chef.
His dedication to efficiency and harmony in the kitchen ensures that every dish served is a testament to quality and consistency. According to Chef Jerry, “Both food quality and the right service primarily stem from our mindset, driven by heart and passion. We want our patrons to believe that every offering at our venue is a manifestation of our dedication.”
This philosophy is not only reflected in the food but also in the way we serve our guests.
Chef Jerry believes in the power of a clear and genuine mindset, which he instills in his team through extensive training focused on mental development.
This ensures that every guest at Fig Branches venues enjoys a distinctive experience in both food and service.
THE FIG LEAF: "FOGLIA DI FICO"
The story behind the name “Foglia di Fico” is deeply personal and symbolic for Chef Jerry Kim. It all started with a dessert he used to create, infused with the delicate and unique flavour of fig leaves, a taste that was sweet, subtle, and
reminiscent of coconut. This dessert quickly became a favourite among his patrons, with its popularity growing as more and more guests requested it.
However, during a crucial time when Chef Jerry needed a significant quantity of fig leaves for a special function, nature had other plans.
Heavy rain had stripped the fig tree of its leaves, leaving him in a tight spot. In a desperate attempt, he tried picking leaves from the ground and even peeling the branches, hoping to extract that cherished flavour. Unfortunately, nothing could replicate the inimitable taste of the fig leaf, not the fruit, not the branches.
Faced with this challenge, Chef Jerry refused to give up. He reached out to his mother in South Korea, where the seasons are opposite to Australia’s, and asked her to collect and dry a large amount
of fig leaves to send to Melbourne. This moment of panic, where he feared he wouldn’t be able to keep up with the demand for his beloved dessert, pushed him to go above and beyond to find a solution.
The fig leaf, in this way, became more than just an ingredient; it
became a symbol of perseverance, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
This story and its underlying philosophy are integral to the identity of “Foglia di Fico” and are passed down to every member of the team. Just as Chef Jerry overcame the challenges of sourcing fig leaves, the restaurant continues to strive for higher standards and achievements, embodying the same spirit of resilience and dedication.
