Deep in the Weeds - A Food Podcast with Anthony Huckstep

While working as an apprentice at Melbourne's famous Stokehouse Restaurant Tom Sarafian discovered Greg Malouf's cookbooks and was thrilled to see the traditional cuisine of his Armenian-Egyptian grandparents being presented with such modern finesse. It inspired him to work for Malouf in Australia and the UK, and pursuing his passion for middle eastern cooking leading him back to Australia where he ran the kitchens of award-winning modern Middle Eastern restaurants. https://www.sarafian.com.au Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

Louis Tikaram (Stanley, Brisbane) grew up in the NSW country town of Mullumbimby. When he turned 18 he took a chance on gut instinct and it set him on a culinary path he’d never imagined. The Crackling is a Deep in the Weeds production in partnership with PorkStar, that dispels the myths, discovers, shares and celebrates the stories of Australia’s best chefs and pork producers. https://www.instagram.com/the_lou_dad/ https://www.instagram.com/porkstars/?hl=en https://www.porkstar.com.au Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/

Inspired by her Maltese heritage, Clare Falzon (Hentley Farm) knew she wanted to be a chef at a very young age. She set of the UK and Europe to immerse herself in some of the world’s best kitchens, but it wasn’t until she returned to Australia and worked under Jacqui Challinor at Nomad that she discovered a great connection with producers. Now, after building those foundations she’s the executive chef one of South Australia’s best restaurants with the ethos of using the very best local producers. https://www.instagram.com/clare.falzon/?hl=en Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

After rising the ranks and becoming part owner of one of Adelaide’s best restaurants, Nikki Friedli (Templo, Hobart) was honoured with the Australian Service Award in the Good Food Guide. Even though she was considered to be at the pinnacle of her craft, the long hours and complete dedication to her venue was taking a toll on her mental health. Realising she needed help, she stepped aside, took time out and began a long process of healing away from the industry. But after time away, she feared her time in hospitality was over until she stepped back onto the floor in a quaint restaurant in Hobart and discovered why she loves the art of great service and the incredible connections it brings. https://templo.com.au Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

After growing up in a family that produced, foraged or caught their food from the land and sea, Ben Shewry (Attica, Melbourne) began a deep connection with food, culture and its importance in our lives. It created the foundation to go on and build his own restaurant that would receive world acclaim, but lockdown after lockdown in Melbourne made him rethink the energy it took to create the unique experience he and his team where creating. But some time away from the restaurant has given him pause to realise that Attica post-covid could be even better than he ever imagined. https://www.attica.com.au Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

After spending his early career in corporate sales and being part of a dot com start up, Anthony Iacono (Bertoni, Balmain) felt a yearning for change, and together with his brother Albert rolled the dice on creating their own café. Inspired by his Italian heritage and his parents love of food and coffee they soon became the hub of the community, noticed a gap in the market and quickly grew to 8 stores around Sydney. But the rapid growth was at odds with the 'family core' of the brand, so they sold all but the original, which continues to be one of the most renowned and loved cafes in Sydney. https://bertoni.com.au/balmain/ Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

Having been accepted into the Culinary Institute of America Israeli-born Roy Ner (Jeru, London) had to wait 9 months for a visa. Keen to get his cooking career kick-started he changed tact and headed to Australia where he trained and scored a gig at Aria with Matt Moran. It lead to a suite of roles, including creating the opening menu for Nour where he took Middle Eastern cuisine to new heights in Sydney. But when the chance to open his very own restaurant emerged, he packed his bags and flew to the United Kingdom where he’s on the verge of opening a Middle Eastern and Australian influenced restaurant and bakery in the heart of Mayfair. https://www.instagram.com/chefroyner/?hl=en Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

After joining the Rockpool Group as a young chef Daniel Masters (The Standard Hotel, Bangkok) learnt early about the importance of not only great produce, but the connections and friendships fostered with producers. Although he built up his career to run one of WA’s most successful restaurants, he yearned for a new challenge and when the opportunity to cook in Bangkok presented itself he couldn't resist. Now, as restrictions ease in Thailand, he’s on the cusp of opening a new restaurant celebrating the best produce of the land, and hero Australian beef too. Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

Growing up in the family restaurant in far North Queensland Buddha Lo (Huso, Marky’s Caviar) was inspired by his father’s work ethic and ability to find balance, harmony and big flavours in simple combinations. It started him on a path that’s lead to time in some of the best restaurants in Melbourne, London and all the way to New York where he joined the brigade of the world’s number 1 restaurant. Now at the age of 30 he’s cooking up a storm at a tiny 14-seat restaurant in the Big Apple. https://www.instagram.com/buddha__lo/ Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

Growing up in a small town in a family of 12 children Damian Brabender (Otis Dining Hall, The Truffle Farm) learnt at a young age that if you do the cooking, someone else does the dishes. He soon fell in love with food, but wasn’t taking his career seriously until his brother drowned in a tragic accident on the very day on the day he qualified as a chef. With his world turned upside down he packed up everything and set off to explore the world and enjoy every day. It led to extraordinary cheffing moments in influential establishments, and all the way to Australia’s capital where he has created one of Canberra’s most awarded establishments. https://otisdininghall.com.au Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

After growing up on the family farm in regional Victoria, Jo Youl (On Island Time, Flinders Island) developed a great connection with the land, animals and produce. That connection inspired her to move to Flinders Island with her young family where together with her husband, they run a cattle farm, run luxury accommodation and restaurant where they dish up food celebrating the unique produce of the island. https://www.onislandtime.com.au Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

Leaving Hobart early on in his career, Simon Fenwick (Monsieur Pierre, Kyneton, Victoria) set his sights on England where time in some of the country’s best kitchens that changed the way he saw his profession. After decades in some of the best restaurants home and abroad, he set the GPS to regional Victoria where he’s created a French-inspired eatery with a cult following. https://www.monsieurpierre.com.au Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

Exhausted, broken and tired of watching the hospitality industry suffer from ongoing lockdowns and restrictions with no clear end in sight, some of Australia's best creative minds have teamed up with hospitality's best-loved chefs and restaurateurs to plead with people to do the only thing that will save their industry- get vaccinated as soon as possible. Industry legend Guillaume Brahimi (Bistro Guillaume, Crown) joins us to discuss the state of the industry as he and many of his contemporaries kick start a campaign aptly called 'Put a Jab on the Menu'. https://vimeo.com/589138069 Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

After asking for a job washing dishes in his local Chinese restaurant at the age of 14 to earn pocket money Joel Bickford (Fort Denison, Shell House) got swept up in the energy of a commercial kitchen. It triggered a career running the food and beverage operations of some of Australia’s best hotels, and manning the pans of some of the most highly regarded restaurants in the land. As lockdown in Sydney continues he’s planning perhaps the biggest move of his career as culinary director of one of Sydney’s boldest new restaurant developments. https://www.instagram.com/chefjoelbickford/?hl=en Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

After starting her career as a aerodynamicist for formula 1 racing, Kate Reid (Lune) starting baking and exploring the exact science of croissants. She became obsessed with procuring the perfect croissant and it led her to use her skills and reverse engineer how they were made traditionally. Her commitment has created one of Australia’s best croissants, and a cult following to boot. https://www.lunecroissanterie.com Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

After turning one of the country’s most awarded restaurants into a takeaway, finish at home operation Corey Costelloe (Rockpool Bar and Grill, Sydney) believes the time has come to do whatever it takes to get the hospitality industry back on its feet. Inspired by his overseas fellow hospitality workers in Europe and the US, he’s calling on the government to introduce a green pass for hospitality – meaning eligible vaccinated workers can go back to work, and vaccinated guests with proof of vaccination can enjoy dining out again too. https://www.instagram.com/coreycostelloe/?hl=en Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

Working in some of the best restaurants, under incredible mentors can give you the grounding to go on to great success as a chef. But, for some, delving into the world of professional butchery, as well as learning the cheffing trade, has given a greater understanding of the anatomy of an animal and the best ways to not only cook it, but use every little bit too. This is the building blocks that created the foundation for Darren Templeman (Botswana Butchery) to take his nose to tail approach to his craft, and its lead to a new gig, where the best quality meat is front and centre. https://www.botswanabutchery.com.au Follow The Crackling https://www.instagram.com/thecracklingpodcast/ Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow PorkStar https://www.instagram.com/porkstars/?hl=en https://www.porkstar.com.au

After growing up at the foot of one of Australia’s most influential hospitality professionals, Sam Gowing (Gowing's Food Health Wealth) cut her teeth in one of the family hotels. It triggered an award-winning career, but after the death of her father she started thinking about our connection with food and how it fuels our bodies. She left her fast-paced career as a hat-winning restaurateur to become a clinical nutritionist consulting to some of the largest hotels and resorts on the planet bringing her unique blend of nutrition, fine dining and business expertise to help put ‘food as medicine’ on the map in Australia. https://www.foodhealthwealth.com Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

Growing up in Bogata, Colombia food was always at the centre of every family get together for Julian Velasquez (El Estanco) but he set out on a path to study Politics and International Relations at University. When he moved to England to improve his English he found part time work as a kitchen hand and it sparked a passion for hospitality he didn’t know he held. He eventually found his way to Australia, and while cooking on The Ghan and Indian Pacific he was offered to chance to open his very own restaurant in the Barossa where he now pays homage to the food of his youth. https://www.elestanco.com.au Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

After working as a line cook in her mother’s restaurant Lindsay Krahenbring (Darvella patisserie, Brisbane) got a taste for hospitality and headed straight to Sydney to gain as much experience as possible. She soon discovered a whole new world of creativity in the pastry section, and it led her on a journey through some of Sydney’s best restaurants, and all the way to running one of the hottest patisseries in the country. https://darvellapatisserie.com Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

After starting an apprenticeship at St Kilda’s iconic Stokehouse while completing high school Oliver Gould (Asado and Palermo’s) rose the ranks over 8 years to become head chef, winning a string of accolades along the way. But after taking a role in Western Australia he found a greater connection with producers, and the experience steered him back to Melbourne where he’s leading two large brigades of chefs exploring the diversity of Argentinian cuisine through the lense of best in class produce. https://www.instagram.com/chef_oliver_gould/?hl=en Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

Inspired by the focus on quality produce during his time cheffing in the United Kingdom, Philip Johnson (E’cco Bistro, Brisbane) returned to Australia determined to create a restaurant serving the very best produce cooked simply. Within two years, his vision was rewarded with the covet restaurant of the year award. Some 26 years later and E’cco has become a Brisbane institution that’s continually evolving and leading the sunshine state down a new culinary path. https://eccobistro.com.au Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

When it comes to food the importance and value of connections, from farmer to chef can not only change the way one cooks, but the evolution of the culinary landscape too. For Ben Williamson (Agnes, Bianca) that connection has been vital to not only know and understand where food comes from, but to be able to push the boundaries of his own cooking. The ethos has lead him to a career defining restaurant, where cooking over fire and the very best produce cooked simply is at the heart of everything they do. https://www.instagram.com/mrbenwilliamson/?hl=en Follow The Crackling https://www.instagram.com/thecracklingpodcast/ Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow PorkStar https://www.instagram.com/porkstars/?hl=en https://www.porkstar.com.au

The lure of a career in food was too much and following in his brothers footsteps Fabio Stefanelli (La Favola) was hooked on making people happy with food. It lead to a journey around the globe cooking in Michelin star restaurant in Italy, to London Russia and finally in Australia where he’s opened an everyday Italian eatery cooking dishes inspired by his mother and nonna, but the road to this hub of the community has been anything but smooth. http://www.favola.com.au Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

While sorting through his late grandparents belongings renowned chef Luke Wakefield (Balthazar, Perth) discovered a rich tapestry of recipes and food memories that weaved through his family’s history. When lockdown forced him to stay home for 6 weeks, the extended period of time with his young family not only forged greater bonds and lasting food memories, but made him reminisce of those he’d experienced with his parents as a child, and how they’ve helped shape the chef he is today. https://www.instagram.com/chefluke.wakefield/?hl=en Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

After creating some of Sydney’s most adored hole in the wall Italian eateries and wine bars, Andrew Cibej (Morocco) took his wine bar concept to Hong Kong expecting to take on the world, but the endeavour cost him financially, personally and put pressure on his restaurants back in Australia. After more than a decade of influence his businesses closed, but an opportunity to recuperate and heal in Morocco working as a chef has given him a little space to breathe. Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

After moving to Australia to begin an audio engineering course Anton Hughes (The Corner, Woy Woy) earnt a crust Djing and almost hit the big time playing kids music until the opportunities started drying up. But an intense fascination in American BBQ led to a prime gig running the Smokehouse at Vic’s Meat Market and triggered a wave of fascination with American BBQ downunder. Never too far from the smoker, Anton now finds himself on the New South Wales Central Coast, and on the verge of opening his very first solo project. https://www.instagram.com/antonhughesbbq/ Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

After creating some of Sydney’s most unique cafes Jen Shaw (Two Good Co.) landed a gig with a craft brewer where she immersed herself in the role of creating bespoke events that gave her a greater connection with the local community and those in need. The deeper connections led to the most rewarding and challenging job of her career training, educating and helping empower women using food as the medium. https://www.twogood.com.au Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

For almost one hundred years Swallow Rock Reach, on the banks of the Hawkesbury River has been the home of the Stones family, first as a citrus farm. But for a period of time the farm sat idle until third generation farmer Sue Simmons (Melanda Park) and her husband started growing Certified organic vegetables for the wholesale markets in Sydney. When help was needed to remove left over potatoes from the paddocks free range pigs were introduced and, it soon blossomed into a full time free range pig farm, producing some of Australia’s best pork. https://melandapark.com.au Follow The Crackling https://www.instagram.com/thecracklingpodcast/ Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow PorkStar https://www.instagram.com/porkstars/?hl=en https://www.porkstar.com.au

After two years of planning his first restaurant, the pandemic hit England and Brendan Fong (Lilymu) had to close the doors on his dream before he had the chance to even open them. He flew back into lockdown in Sydney unsure of what his future would hold. He bided his time cooking private dinners until a chance meeting with a young, dynamic restaurant group presented a chance to bring a new level of dining to Parramatta. https://www.instagram.com/brendan.fong/ Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

After decades creating some of Sydney’s best restaurants and catering companies Rob Rubis (Manta, Molo Bar, Fisherman’s Wharf Seafood) took an opportunity to vertically integrate his food businesses by purchasing a fisherman’s co-op in response to the impact of the pandemic. The move has not only made him re-think the way he runs his restaurants moving forward, but has created one of the most unique seafood offerings in the country that is truly water to plate. https://mantarestaurant.com.au/dining/ Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

Becoming a mother at a young age, Alex Elliott-Howery (Cornersmith) realised she was throwing away a lot of her groceries that had turned before she had a chance to use them. It triggered deep research into other cultures and ways to reduce waste and opened a whole new world of pickling and preserving. Inspired to change the way we eat every day, she teamed up with her husband, a hospitality lifer, to open the seminal café that not only began a new conversation in food, but gathered a cult following too. https://cornersmith.com.au Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

Originally from Paris, Antoine Moscovitz (Bellevue Cottage By Antoine) cut his teeth cooking under world-renowned chef Alain Ducasse before heading to Australia to work in one of the most progressive restaurants of its time Salt with Luke Mangan. But, after realising the opportunity for a great French bistro in the suburbs he opened his own restaurant that soon became one of Sydney’s Best French restaurants. These days he’s taking a heritage listed site, to lofty heights and the local community is right behind him. https://bellevuecottage.com.au Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

After cooking in large scale events to in-house cheffing for an eccentric pop star in the United Kingdom, Chloe Watts (Tarte Bakery and Café, Burleigh Heads) had a major accident. During recovery she yearned to return to the region where she grew up in South Queensland, and seeing the positive changes in the food scene upon her return she set the wheels in motion to open her own venue. Once she found the ideal location, she had to wait seven years to get the keys to the building – and it’s not only become the realisation of a dream – but one of the best venues in the region too. https://www.instagram.com/tartebakery/?hl=en Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

As a child, Will Mahusay (Sydney Cebu Lechon) grew up helping his father deliver the colour and vibrancy of Filipino cuisine with his catering. As an adult, he’s taken the reigns of the family business, found bricks and mortar and is leading the charge to celebrate and take filipino food to a wider audience downunder. https://www.sydneycebulechon.com.au/ Follow The Crackling https://www.instagram.com/thecracklingpodcast/ Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow PorkStar https://www.instagram.com/porkstars/?hl=en https://www.porkstar.com.au

With a love of food and a burning desire to learn how to cook, Kyle Zevenbergen (Zev’s Bistro) started a school based apprenticeship at the age of 13 in the Queensland regional town of Chinchilla at the local motel restaurant. Eager to broaden his horizon’s and learn more about his craft he moved to Toowoomba and embed himself in the local hospitality industry. Now with his own restaurant, he’s changing the conversation and upping the ante on food in regional Queensland with a Bistro that’s become a destination diner, and an important hub of the community too. https://www.zevsbistro.com Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

Growing up in Rome, food was at the centre of Francesco Balestrieri (Agostini’s, Canberra) universe. It led to a yearning to build a career as a chef and open his own restaurant in his home city. But love changed everything. Taking the plunge and moving with his wife to her home city Canberra, Australia. He immersed himself in his new home where he is now at the helm of one of the city’s best Italian restaurants. https://easthotel.com.au/eat-and-drink/agostinis/ Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

Growing up in a family with a rich hospitality background, Grant Schooling (Louca’s) was polishing glasses by his mum’s side at famous restaurant Vines, McLaren Vale, at the age of seven. Inspired by his mother’s cooking prowess he started an apprenticeship and began to carve out a career in some of Adelaide’s best pubs. While taking pub grub to a new level he caught the eye of a successful restaurateur and the two have combined to create one of Australia’s best seafood restaurants. https://www.instagram.com/grantschooling/?hl=en Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

Growing up in a family with an Italian mum and Indian father, Adam Dsylva (Coda, Tonka, Boca) experienced an abundance of incredible food as a kid. It ignited a passion to become a chef, and saw him rise the ranks of some of Australia’s best restaurants until he got the opportunity to open his own restaurant. Now with multiple award-winning venues focussing on modern Asian and Indian cuisines, he’s tapped into his Italian heritage with a top shelf gelato offering. https://www.instagram.com/adamdsylvachef/?hl=en Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

While working at renowned three Michelin Star restaurant The Waterside Inn, Tommy Prosser (Berrima Vault House) found himself in the deep end and quickly realised he had to either sink or swim. Although his foundation in professional cookery has in fine dining restaurant, his move to Australia heralded a move into more casual operations that allowed him to utilise the techniques he’d learnt, but the freedom to cook in a more relaxed manner. Now, after more than a decade downunder, he’s leading a team to take guests on a nostalgic journey through the food he loved as a kid. https://www.instagram.com/tommyprosser/ Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

After growing up in a regional New South Wales town on a mixed cropping and cattle stud farm, Lauren Mathers (Bundarra Berkshires) felt a real connection to the land. While running a small foodstore she realised she couldn’t source good local pork. Determined to stay local, she set about creating her own pig farm and now produces some of Australia’s best pork. https://bundarraberkshires.com.au Follow The Crackling https://www.instagram.com/thecracklingpodcast/ Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow PorkStar https://www.instagram.com/porkstars/?hl=en https://www.porkstar.com.au

Not wanting to be a business casualty of covid-19, Leor Haimes (Saul’s Sandwiches) set about changing his entire business model to not only survive the pandemic but prosper too. Using the foundations of his successful café, he created a sandwich offering that started a life of its own and soon garnered cult status. Now with three stores in under a year, he’s looking to expand his elevated every day eats offering and realise the drem he had as a young kid. https://www.instagram.com/saulssandwiches/?hl=en Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

After studying Gastronomy and Fine Arts and finding her feet as a chef in her homeland Turkey, Ozge Kalvo (Ester, Sydney) knew she wanted to try something new and immerse herself in a new culture. After a chance meeting with an Australian in Turkey, she found herself in regional Victoria cooking at an Australian Turkish Anzac Friendship for 120 people. It led to roles in some of Sydney’s best kitchens, where she’s dreaming of the day she can open her very own Turkish restaurant. https://www.instagram.com/ozgekalvo/?hl=en Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

After traversing the globe working for award-winning chefs in Auckland, Adelaide and Dubai, Stacey Connor (Humble on Duke) found herself in Queensland and yearning to open her very own restaurant with her partner. After settling in Noosa she found a tiny 14-seater restaurant where the pair are not only in their element delivering an honest, bespoke dining experience, but have become an important hub of the community too. https://www.humbleonduke.com.au Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

After dropping in and out of the hospitality industry for years trying different vocations Daniel Quinn (Baja Modern Mexican, Brisbane) realised the energy of a hospo life was too powerful to ignore. Not one to do anything in half measures he built a string of thriving restaurant, but after moving to Brisbane it was a crazy idea inside a shipping container that lead to his most challenging and successful restaurant. https://www.bajamodernmexican.com Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://linktr.ee/DirtyLinenPodcast The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

Almost a decade ago Gianluca Esposto (A’mare, Sydney) was bored of his job selling jewellery. He quit, bought a one-way to ticket from Milan, Italy to Sydney, Australia with a plan to immerse himself in the hospitality sector. Ten years on, he’s risen the ranks of some of the city’s best restaurants to find a role where the front of house team are delivering one of the most bespoke experiences downunder. https://www.instagram.com/gianluca_esposto/?hl=en Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/dirty-linen-a-food-podcast-with-dani-valent/id1518946986 The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

Whether it be putting your hands in the soil to discover what it takes to farm or grow quality produce, or sharing food with friends and family. As a child Aaron Ward (Sixpenny) spent a lot of time on his Grand parents farm and it ignited a love for food that has seen him trail blaze a career as one of our best young chefs. https://www.instagram.com/aaronward88/?hl=en https://www.sixpenny.com.au Follow The Crackling https://www.instagram.com/thecracklingpodcast/ Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow PorkStar https://www.instagram.com/porkstars/?hl=en https://www.porkstar.com.au

After being stood down from his role as head chef at the start of the pandemic Sam Young (Juicy Banana) started a selling a range of dumplings inspired by his mother in local supermarkets. Inspired by its success he started doing private bespoke dining experiences in people’s homes, and although it was a hit, not everything always went to plan. https://www.instagram.com/bigsamyoung/?hl=en Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/dirty-linen-a-food-podcast-with-dani-valent/id1518946986 The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

Working in restaurants while studying at University Leanne Altmann (Trader House) found herself falling for the energy of the hospitality sector. It lead to a trip to England where she cut her teeth at Three Michelin Star Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, before retuning home to rise the ranks in Andrew McConnell’s restaurants where she leads a team of sommeliers bringing different wine experiences across a portfolio of incredible restaurants. https://www.instagram.com/lea_alt_/?hl=en Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/dirty-linen-a-food-podcast-with-dani-valent/id1518946986 The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

After a long career in the meat industry, breaking new ground and initiating new and better ways to transport meat internationally, Blair Hayden (The Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel) saw an opportunity to brew real ale and change the way we drink down under. In 1986 he bought the freehold of The Lord Nelson Hotel to become The Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel - Sydney's oldest continually licensed Hotel and now Oldest Craft Brewery. It not only set the wheels in motion for change in beer offering downunder, but also ignited the boom in gastro pubs too. https://www.lordnelsonbrewery.com Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/?hl=en Follow Huck https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS Dirty Linen with Dani Valent https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/dirty-linen-a-food-podcast-with-dani-valent/id1518946986 The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling