Marylebone in Conversation: Caldesi

Q&A with Katie Caldesi, co-founder of Caldesi. 

Tell us about Caldesi and what makes it unique?

We are a small, family-owned business that has proudly been based on Marylebone Lane for over 30 years. The brand was originally founded by Giancarlo, later expanded with me and has since been carried forward by our sons.

What do you love most about being based in Marylebone Village?

There is a strong sense of community in Marylebone Village. We often see and recognise our customers in the street, and it truly feels as though we are surrounded by friends and familiar faces.

Which women have inspired you most throughout your life?

I’ve always been inspired by my mother. She showed great initiative in hard times, always put delicious home-cooked food on the table and encouraged me to pursue my dreams. Together, we watched Delia Smith avidly, following her clearly written, simple recipes – she inspired me to teach and write my own recipes.

What has been your proudest achievement in your career or for Caldesi?

Seeing my first bestseller, The Diabetes Weightloss Cookbook, climb the Amazon charts was a real career highlight. We reached No. 7 across all Amazon book sales, just one ahead of Mary Berry and one behind Michelle Obama at the time!

What does International Women’s Day mean to you? 

International Women’s Day has always felt meaningful to me, particularly because it is so widely celebrated in Italy. Sprigs of beautiful yellow mimosa are gifted to honour women’s achievements and to express friendship and support between us.