One of the world’s most famous chefs dined at Perth’s newest fine-dining restaurant on Wednesday, just days after the highly-anticipated venue threw open its doors.
Nobu Matsuhisa — famous for his Nobu fine dining empire and culinary prowess — was invited by restaurateur George Kailis to taste test his lavish South Cottesloe brasserie grill, Gibney.
In a coup for the luxury fine diner, it was Chef Nobu’s team who requested to break bread with Kailis at the venue.
The esteemed Japanese entrepreneur and his entourage enjoyed a bountiful seafood banquet comprising Pacific oysters, mussel escabeche, and western rock lobster.
In the interest of a full-menu experience, and a balanced diet, Kailis served his classic vegetable dishes Parrilla-grilled Sugarloaf cabbage and woodfired broccolini.
Dressed casually in a blue long-sleeve shirt, pinstripe pants and white sneakers, the Japanese chef marked the occasion with a cosy snap of the pair.
Believed to have enjoyed his experience, Chef Nobu sent a heartfelt message to the local food aficionado as a token of his gratitude.
“I thank you for your hospitality ❤,” he messaged Kailis.
The legendary chef is in the midst of an Australian tour, having hosted a cocktail party and eight-course dinner in Perth last month for eager fans.
He will grace Crown Melbourne later this week to lead a Sushi masterclass and greet guests at a Mother’s Day lunch.
Ahead of his trip Down Under, Chef Nobu expressed his excitement at returning to our shores.
“I can’t wait to return to Australia. It is a place very close to my heart and I love visiting my team and local suppliers,” he said.
“The Australian dining scene and hospitality industry is one of the best in the world; brimming with creative culinary talent, incredible produce, and a passionate community of diners.”
Perth’s own dining maven in Kailis — who oversees Cottesloe’s Barchetta, Island Market Trigg, and Shorehouse — opened WA’s first formal alfresco dining terrace with the intent to make it one of the State’s premier dining locations.
A lure for international chefs and local diners alike, Perth foodies have already booked tables into the new year.
In anticipation of this week’s opening, Kailis said, “We want to create a destination dining venue of significance”.
Aware of the cost-of-living crisis gripping the wallets of WA residents, he admitted a visit to the venue is “expensive, but it’s an investment”.
“You’ve got a team of local artisans preparing your food. You’ve got the best sommeliers in the state. You’ve got the best wait staff in the state.
“You’re in a beautiful venue eating delicious local produce of a high quality,” Kailis added.
Gibney is open from midday, seven days a week, and is taking a maximum booking of eight guests during its soft opening phase.