Australian tribunal rejects Italian chef's unfair-dismissal claim over pineapple pizza refusals
The Fair Work Commission dismissed Davide Tamburella's claim that he was unfairly fired from Brisbane's La Costa after refusing to make ham-and-pineapple pizza, citing procedural issues and lack of exceptional circumstances.
Australia's Fair Work Commission has turned down an unfair-dismissal application filed by Italian chef Davide Tamburella, who said he was terminated from the now-closed La Costa restaurant in Brisbane after repeatedly refusing to prepare ham-and-pineapple pizza. Tamburella argued the topping "an insult to his culture" and linked his dismissal to a hand injury he sustained at work. The commission found the claim was lodged late and did not demonstrate "exceptional circumstances," according to Commissioner Jennifer Hunt.
Elliot Ingram, the chef's former employer, testified that Tamburella's refusal occurred during a $15,000 function and noted that, while pineapple was not his personal preference, he had learned to "pick your battles." The restaurant closed in July when its lease expired. Tamburella has since taken a position at another Italian eatery that does not feature pineapple on its menu.
"an insult to his culture" – Davide Tamburella "pick your battles" – Elliot Ingram