Chef & Owner - Daniel Ridgeway

 

Like many of the world’s greats, his inspiration for cooking stems from fond young memories in the kitchen. He was first introduced to the kitchen at age seven, cooking alongside his Thai Aunty preparing banquets as well as helping in his family’s traditional pizza restaurant after school.

 

At 14, Daniel started in his first professional kitchen and at 15 began his apprenticeship at a five-star international resort where his passion for cooking flourished. After working in London at Michelin star restaurants including The Square at Mayfair London, Daniel headed to Vancouver and worked with award winning Chef David Hawkesworth at West Restaurant. He then returned to Australia to take a position with well-known Melbourne chefs including Andrew McConnell. Daniel was then requested to return to the Gold Coast to open Sofitel Gold Coast’s signature restaurant, Room81 and soon became Executive Chef for Sofitel Broadbeach. However his career swiftly progressed when he was asked to relaunch the luxurious JW Marriott in Khao lak Thailand. When he finally returned home to Australia at 28, he became the youngest Executive Chef at Sofitel Sydney Wentworth – and indeed within the international brand worldwide.

 

Over the years Daniel had developed his own sought-after flair with food, gaining a myriad of industry recognition and restaurant success beyond his years. It was then time to fulfil his lifelong dream of starting his own culinary empire.

Alas, Little Truffle Dining Room & Bar, which opened in 2010, was born.

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The award-winning venue has undergone a massive million-dollar renovation which includes a complete change of layout, fixtures, seating, bar, amenities, and kitchen. 

 

“We have finally been able to create the Little Truffle we have always envisioned.   We literally ripped everything out and started from scratch.   Little Truffle 2.0 is a classy, lux venue which features a deep navy colour scheme with brushed brass finishings, dramatic velvet curtains, and dark timber floors.” said owners Daniel and Ruggie Ridgeway.

 

To learn more about The Ridgeway Group and their fantastic restaurants, click here to visit their website.