Think Bigger and Rewrite the Rules
HereGlasgow readers meet Otello Calvert, founder of the acclaimed Tagliotello. This culinary entrepreneur isn’t just thinking outside the box—he’s reinventing it. With a dynamic blend of innovation, grit, and a little bit of TikTok magic, Otello is exploring what it means to be a chef in the modern world. Here’s some of the story so far…
From Global Tastes to Local Plates
Otello’s story is not your typical startup saga. A self-taught chef with an infectious passion, his culinary adventure spans from making fresh pasta in the streets of Inverness to exploring flavours in Japan and New Zealand. Along the way, he learned resilience by standing firm on his culinary standards, even when faced with language barriers, isolation and unexpected challenges. His commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients is not just talk—it’s the bedrock of his culinary philosophy, ensuring every dish is extraordinary.
Family Influence, Musical Talent and a Diverse Career Path
Otello’s culinary journey isn’t just peppered with spices and flavours—it’s also infused with melody. He shares a rich musical background with his brother, having toured the U.S. with the Northumbrian Ranters, a County music band. This artistic flair doesn’t just complement his culinary pursuits; it elevates them, bringing a rhythmic storytelling ability when talking about the why and how of his dishes.
Before Otello embarked on his culinary venture, his career was already eclectic—from managing a whiskey bar on the rugged Isle of Skye to engaging in historical tourism and also the film industry, where he even mingled with the likes of Jason Momoa.
Speaking to him and listening to his stories, you wonder how he’s only 28 years old!
With early fond memories of being at his ‘Nonas’ in the North of Italy, surrounded by wonderful raw ingredients in her allotment, his family life always had a strong focus on enjoying food in good company.
Otello is self-taught, however despite never attending culinary school, he was invited to teach at the Cambridge Regional College’s culinary school, where students appreciated his practical insights and his trial-and-error approach to food.
Food Truck and TikTok
What do you do if you need a food truck to sell your fresh pasta creations? Well, if you are Otello, you use your engineering savvy, and refurbish your own food trailer—a testament to his determination and hands-on approach!
Otello embraced TikTok early on in his career, telling the story of his food journey and food truck business building, amassing over 115,000 followers and funding his entrepreneurial dreams. Despite an initial reluctance, he embraced the platform, turning transparency and storytelling into keys for unlocking his culinary success.
Glasgow Pop-Up Restaurant
Now back in the UK and based in Glasgow, Otello is launching a pop-up restaurant that promises to be as bold and engaging as his journey so far. Situated in the energetic Serendipity West venue, this isn’t just about serving plates of food; it’s about creating an experience. Otello’s menu promises to disrupt traditional Italian cuisine with innovative twists, presenting familiar flavours and comfort food in daring new formats.
Keeping his takeaway format, all his food is served in environmentally friendly packaging, and you can sit in with it, or take it wherever you like! He intends to be casual, and quick, and you will even be able to watch your food being made as he live-streams on TikTok!
Inspiration and the Road Ahead
Inspired by culinary greats like Anthony Bourdain and the formidable Gordon Ramsay, Otello isn’t just following in their footsteps; he’s forging his own path. His pop-up’s dynamic menu is set to excite and inspire, showcasing not just flavours but also his philosophy of ‘flavours first, rules second’.
With a menu that updates monthly, diners can expect fresh, exciting experiences with each visit. His street food roots and commitment to award-winning excellence are the foundation of Tagliotello’s offering—delighting everyone from students enjoying budget-friendly options to gourmets seeking new delights.
Building the Future
Otello is on a mission to build something bigger than himself—a shared community centred around bold flavours and even bolder ideas. His journey from a food truck to ambitious pop-up ventures and talks of opening a brick-and-mortar establishment illustrates his relentless drive. Each chapter of his story, whether working with historical tourism or managing a whiskey bar, enriches his culinary narrative, making him a force of innovation and excellence.
For those who pull up a seat at Otello’s pop-up, prepare for more than just a meal. Brace yourself for an unforgettable experience, where every dish is a chapter in a broader story of passion, persistence, and the relentless pursuit of culinary excellence. Buckle up—because Otello is just getting started.
Find out more: Visit Otello’s www.Tagliotello.com and follow the adventure on Instagram.
Has this made you hungry for Italian food? Pop into Serendipity West (check Tagliotello’s Insta for dates and times) or check out more of the best Italian restaurants in Glasgow.
