Big Esso' is an expression in the Torres Strait. It’s a slang term that means ‘the biggest thank you.’ This is what you say when you really want to express your gratitude. When combined, ‘Mabu Mabu & Big Esso’ is what you would say before kicking-off a celebration like no other.
We are beyond proud to be bringing Indigenous food and culture back to the banks of Birrarung (Yarra). This River was once an eel breeding ground; where shark, dolphin and stingrays could be found. This place was a main source of food, hunting, cooking, and ceremony. By sharing food in this place, we hope to bring these stories back to life.
Big Esso is a place to meet friends and strangers. Grab a seat at our communal tables, tune into our ‘Island Radio’ featuring blak musicians and Australian classics, order a drink from a list of Indigenous owned businesses and certified social enterprises, and have a yarn with the people either side of you.
OUR FOUNDER Nornie Bero is the founder and CEO of Mabu Mabu. Originally from the Komet Tribe of the Meriam people in the Torres Strait, she has been a professional chef for over 25 years. Nornie established Mabu Mabu in 2018 with a dream to make native ingredients the hero of the Australian kitchen. She started by selling a range of homemade condiments and spices at South Melbourne Markets and since then, our company is now home to over 80 employees across three departments; retail, catering and dining.
OUR VILLAGE Mabu Mabu is a saying in the Torres Strait that means ‘help yourself.’ It’s what you say to kick off a feast with your friends and family. Our food culture is all about sharing, and this experience is fundamental to our business. Whether you are joining us for a meal, an event, or ordering some Kara Meta staples at home, we want you to feel part of our village. We're a proud 100% indigenous owned, women-led and LGBTQIA+ business. We are working towards a sustainable and socially driven supply chain. Where possible, we source from First Nations, queer-led, women-led, and environmentally conscious producers who align with our ethos.
OUR FUTURE Mabu Mabu is on a mission to put Indigenous ingredients in kitchens across Australia. We want people to be using, eating and celebrating native ingredients every day. We only use 100% Australian products from our kitchens to our bar, and work with local suppliers as often as possible. Be a part of our village and explore all the ways you can incorporate native ingredients into your everyday cooking.
