CELEBRATING CULINARY EXCELLENCE WITH THE NEW BEEF + LAMB AMBASSADOR CHEFS
In an exciting announcement for New Zealand’s hospitality industry, Beef + Lamb New Zealand has unveiled the four talented chefs who will serve as their Ambassadors throughout 2024 and 2025. These chefs represent a diverse range of culinary styles and hail from various regions across New Zealand, each bringing their own unique flair to the table.
The 2024/2025 Beef + Lamb Ambassador Chefs are:
Cameron Davies, The Fat Duck Te Anau
Dean Thompson, Schnappa Rock, Tutukaka
Mrinal Ghosal, Mudbrick Restaurant, Waiheke Island
Chetan Pangam, One80° Restaurant, Wellington
For over a quarter of a century, Beef + Lamb New Zealand has been recognising and highlighting the immense talent within the New Zealand culinary scene, and the Ambassador Chef accolade remains a highly sought-after honour within the hospitality industry.
Lisa Moloney, Foodservice Manager at Beef + Lamb New Zealand, shared her excitement about the new Ambassador Chefs, noting that they will play an important role in showcasing the New Zealand food story with inspiration, innovation, and a focus on elevating New Zealand grass-fed beef and lamb.
Each Ambassador Chef brings their own perspective and passion to the role. Cameron Davies, chef and co-owner of The Fat Duck in Te Anau, felt proud and humble at being chosen for the second time as a Beef + Lamb Ambassador Chef, emphasising his connection to rural New Zealand and his commitment to supporting local farmers.
Meanwhile, Dean Thompson, head chef at Schnappa Rock in Tutukaka, expressed his enthusiasm at being named an Ambassador Chef at the age of 27, highlighting his long-standing admiration for the programme and his eagerness to contribute to its legacy.
Mrinal Ghosal, head chef at Mudbrick Restaurant on Waiheke Island, spoke of his creative approach to cooking and his dedication to showcasing the hard work of New Zealand farmers on his menu, noting the honour he felt at being selected to represent an organisation of such significance within the hospitality sector.
Executive Chef Chetan Pangam, renowned for his legendary Beef Wellington and his contribution to Wellington's hospitality scene, conveyed his pride and gratitude at receiving the accolade, emphasising the pivotal role that New Zealand beef and lamb play on his menu and his commitment to showcasing the work of local farmers to both local and international guests.
As the new Ambassador Chefs embark on their journey, they promise to continue celebrating the rich heritage of New Zealand cuisine while championing the producers and ingredients that make it all possible. With their talent, passion, and dedication, they are sure to inspire food lovers around the globe and elevate New Zealand's reputation as a culinary destination.