Originally from New Zealand, I now live in the Highlands of Scotland. Given the opportunity to come to Britain after winning the Toque d’Or in NZ in 1999. I then found myself travelling around the UK & Europe looking for adventure after working in London and the SE of England.
On arriving in Scotland, I took a wee break from professional cookery using this time to discover some of Scotland’s hidden gems by bike & on foot I explored the Highlands of Scotland and beyond. Immersing myself in food and adventure while learning about the people and their cuisines on the road.
I made my home in Scotland in 2002 and have never looked back.
I found my chefing feet again when I opened The Mountain Café in Aviemore in 2004.
My aim has always been to create food that is fresh, delicious and different - but approachable to all. Taking top notch Scottish ingredients & giving them a Kiwi twist.
Covid-19 appearing in 2020 has forced me to change direction I have developed my café into a bakery which is more mobile and can be more robust when unexpected situations arise.
This situation has brought all my passions closer to me and I have worked hard to create a bakery that is an integral part of this amazing community we live in, I believe food brings the best out in people & brings communities together.
In 2015 I wrote ‘The Mountain Café Cookbook’ and am presently working on my next book. - albeit a wee bit delayed as a result of everything happening in 2020.
Throughout all of this I am still biking and exploring where I can – especially overseas. Always looking for that wee bit of inspiration to spark the next recipe or even big idea. Always looking to see how I can share it all with people & inspire.