MANILA, Philippines - Who is the Australian celebrity chef who is a member of the International Culinary panel of Singapore Airlines and has been in the Vogue Entertaining and Travel?
He was raised on a dairy farm in New South Wales and developed a commitment to the land and his love for food and local produce.
At age 15, he finished school to initiate a career as chef, and it was his apprenticeship at La Belle Helene Restaurant on Sydney’s North Shore that he discovered and practiced the art of classical French cooking.
In 1991, he launched his first restaurant, The Paddington In Bistro, together with business partner Peter Sullivan. The successful partnership led them to open their second restaurant, named after him in 1995, which was awarded the Best New Restaurant by the Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide.
In December 1999, he opened Aria Restaurant.
At Aria, he believes that seasonality is an important basis for menu production and one of the most significant ingredients in achieving a flavorsome, balanced, and premium quality menu. Vogue Entertaining and Travel has described the restaurant’s food as “a revelation”; while distinguished wine writer James Halliday has called the wine list, “the best in Australia.”
In August 2009, the business partners opened a second Aria restaurant in Brisbane. Located in the Eagle Street Pier precinct, the restaurant has spectacular views of the Brisbane River and the Story Bridge provides a better backdrop for diners.
While his main focus is his restaurants, he also enjoys sharing his experience and knowledge to the public through the media, be it on television, radio or print. In 2008, he became resident top chef on Channel 9’s reality cooking show The Chopping Block and was judge in Channel 10’s enormously successful Master Chef show in 2009 and 2011.
He has written two cookbooks. One named after him showcases some Aria dishes adapted for the home cook and his second book, When I get Home, was released in September 2009.
Last week’s question: Who is this 20th century American architect and furniture woman designer whose works inspired both modernism and Art Deco?
Answer: Eileen Gray
Winner: Cecilia L. Coquia of San Juan
Text your answer to 0915-1371538 with your name and address. One winner will be chosen through a raffle of texts with the correct answer. The winner will receive P2,000 worth of SM gift certificates for use at Our Home, SM Department Store, or SM Supermarket. They can claim their prize at Our Home in SM Megamall. Call the store manager at 634-1951, 634-1952.Bring photocopies of two valid IDs and a clipping of the Design Quiz issue in which you appear as winner.