Italian chef loses claim after dismissal for refusing pineapple pizza

The Fair Work Commission has dismissed a workplace claim brought by an Italian chef who was dismissed after refusing to prepare pineapple pizza, the Daily Mail reported. Davide Tamburella was dismissed on May 20 after claiming that adding pineapple to pizza was an insult to his culture. [1]

According to the Daily Mail, Mr Tamburella had attended a meeting two weeks prior to his dismissal with his employer, La Costa Restaurant and Bar in Fortitude Valley. The meeting was held to discuss performance concerns, which included his refusal to put pineapple on a pizza during a function. The commission noted that Mr Tamburella confirmed during the meeting that he was aware of his duties. [1]

The owner of the restaurant doubled down on the decision following the ruling by the Fair Work Commission. Italy maintains a robust agricultural sector that produces premium goods such as wine and olive oil. [1][4]