Deep in the Weeds - A Food Podcast with Anthony Huckstep

When Claire Van Vuuren first opened Bloodwood in Newtown, all she hoped for was a restaurant of her own that got the support of the local community, but little did she know her restaurant would trigger the beginnings of one of the countries most vibrant, diverse and creative food hubs. https://www.bloodwoodnewtown.com 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

How wild things are After working in some of the world’s best restaurants including Quay and Mugaritz, Analiese Gregory found solace in regional France foraging food, connecting with nature and cooking produce of the season. Inspired by a real connection with nature she moved to Tasmania, started renovating her 110-year-old farmhouse in the Huon Valley and began a life of foraging, diving, hunting, cooking on beaches, and connecting with the people whose life work it is to grow our food. https://www.instagram.com/analiesegregory/?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 making a name for himself as culinary director of three of New York’s best restaurants Colin Wood (Arimia Estate) returned home to Perth at the beginning of March when the pandemic was taking hold. A chef that’s been more willing to learn than seek the limelight, he’s re-engaged with the Perth scene to help train and mentor the next generation of young chefs, explored the art of cheese making and is embarking on a culinary adventure in Margaret River that most chefs dream about. https://www.instagram.com/colejwood/ 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

With incredible produce and a young and dynamic restaurant scene Tasmania has become a destination for food-loving travellers. Sparked by a throng of well-travelled and highly skilled local professionals, Alice Chugg (Templo, Hobart) believes the regional and local travel focus could shine a light on some of the Apple Islands best kept secrets. https://www.instagram.com/templohobart/?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

While making small goods at one of Melbourne’s finest restaurants Mick Nunn (Salt Kitchen Charcuterie) discovered his calling and it set him on a path of discovery through Spain, and France to his hometown of Ballarat where he is producing some of Australia’s best charcuterie. https://saltkitchen.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

For the last day of 2020, Huck gets in a room with stablemate Dani Valent and our producer Rob Locke to record our first ever dual Dirty Linen / Deep in the Weeds episode. From Huck's Canberra recording studio (ie dining room), we reflect on the year that was and look forward to the year ahead. And then we go out for dinner! The last bit of this episode is recorded at Pilot restaurant, at the end of an astonishingly good degustation. We haul owner Dash Rumble over to the mic and do an on-the-spot restaurant review. 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 cutting his teeth in some of the world’s best Michelin star restaurants that challenged the realms of gastronomy, Lennox Hastie felt he was losing touch with ingredients in their purest form. After a trip to San Sebastian it set a fire in his belly and sent him on a journey to discover the art of cooking over fire, where ingredients are left to show their true character. https://www.firedoor.com.au 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 one of the most challenging years, Australian culinary icon Stephanie Alexander talks about how much the culinary landscape has evolved, what it takes to overcome adversity when running a restaurant, and the importance of quality ingredients and care when cooking. Celebrating 80 years this year, her work is not done as she has more plans for the incredible Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation in 2021. https://www.stephaniealexander.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://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/dirty-linen-a-food-podcast-with-dani-valent/id1518946986 The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

With over 200,000 cases of covid-19 daily in the US and a government offering little to no support, award-winning Michelin star chef and restaurateur Daniel Patterson (Coi, Alta Group, San Fransisco) believes the restaurant industry has undergone irreparable damage. Although the new Biden government offers hope, he says the road to recovery could take decades, but he’s starting with the most vulnerable and disadvantaged with a program to get them back on their feet and find clear career paths. https://www.coirestaurant.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

As the cluster of covid-19 cases in Sydney’s Northern Beaches increased Doug Fraser’s (Lovat, Newport) restaurant appeared in the newspapers as a restaurant linked to a case. The impact of such was sudden. All staff members sent home to be tested, a restaurant deep clean and closure of the restaurant at the busiest time of year. But with a positive outlook they’re working on Christmas packs for local residents and planning to open New Years Eve if the cluster cases drop. https://www.lovat.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://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/dirty-linen-a-food-podcast-with-dani-valent/id1518946986 The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

After turning his three hat restaurant into a bakery and breakfast takeaway, Dan Puskas (Six Penny) relished the time spent with his team and took a moment to relax without the pressure of reviews, expectation of three hat dining and holding onto them too. With a business that has evolved daily since inception, he’s giving his staff more license than ever to take Six Penny into the next decade and, following the success of the bakery, he’s eyeing off sites to bring it back too. https://www.sixpenny.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://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/dirty-linen-a-food-podcast-with-dani-valent/id1518946986 The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

After 40 years of business with one of Australia’s most successful food brands and export businesses, Mike Murray (Prestige Foods) saw everything he’d built come to a grinding halt in March – with his Maldives business alone going from $2M sales per month to zero overnight. But the ultimate optimist and a man to never say no, he set about planning and re-organising the business that meant he not only replaced lost income, but held onto all of his huge workforce too. https://prestigefoods.com.au https://www.stocksmatter.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://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/dirty-linen-a-food-podcast-with-dani-valent/id1518946986 The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

Drought and bushfires had a devastating impact on farming in Australia, and for soft fruit producer Julie Anderson (Parkesbourne Produce) the smoke taint and drought meant some crops will take 18 months to recover. But the fruits of her labour, that include the stunning Alpine Strawberry, over 30 plum varieties and many more rare berries, make the hardship and challenges all worth it, and Australia's best chefs are taking note. https://www.facebook.com/ParkesbourneProduce/ 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 some serious soul-searching and time to breathe, Julian Cincotta (Butter Sydney and Thievery) made sure all his staff were looked after and then set about running through his business with a fine tooth comb. The result is a tighter operation, smoother systems and the ability to expand with new sites, even while navigating the toughest year on record. https://buttersydney.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://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/dirty-linen-a-food-podcast-with-dani-valent/id1518946986 The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

With an award-winning restaurant on the border of NSW and Queensland Morgan Snow (Fins Restaurant and Fins at Plantation House) lost half of her entire team after a three-month closure due to the pandemic and a lack of tourists. Just when she thought the business was in jeopardy, she put together an entirely new team, reopened and with a huge influx of Australian tourists, trade is up 800% on the previous year with the promise of the best summer on record. https://www.fins.com.au/weddings-functions-fins-seafood-restaurant-kingscliff/ 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 growing up in the family restaurant, Palisa Anderson (Chat Thai, Boon Café and Jarern Chai Grocer, Boon Luck Farm) ventured overseas for a career far from hospitality. But after starting her own family, she returned to the fold and set up a farm to grow the ingredients vital to Thai cuisine. The impact has not only transformed the offering in her restaurants, but given her a greater connection to food too. https://www.instagram.com/palisaanderson/?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 five years of trying to push the boundaries of food and wine in Wollongong the pandemic landed and gave Andy Burns (Baby Face Kitchen, Wollongong) the time to not only assess everything they do, but the confidence to chance their arm with a set menu offering that allows creativity to flow through the kitchen and onto the floor with the dining staff. The impact has been swift with Sydney-siders venturing south just to get a taste enjoy their hospitality, and the restaurant has never been busier. http://www.babyfacekitchen.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://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/dirty-linen-a-food-podcast-with-dani-valent/id1518946986 The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

After building one of Australia’s best small artisan bakeries over the last decade targeting foodservice businesses, the pandemic landed and Simon Cancio (Brickfields, Chippendale) quickly pivoted his operations to a heavier retail focus. Grateful to see an uplift in business, he’s taken the opportunity to expand the business to give it the capability to grow while retaining its bespoke artisan heart. https://www.brickfields.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://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/dirty-linen-a-food-podcast-with-dani-valent/id1518946986 The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

After 30 years of pouring everything into her career, Bronwyn Kabboord (Du Fermier Trentham, Victoria) found her work life balance had little to do with balance at all, and she was headed down a path of no return. But after moving to the country and taking a job with Annie Smithers, she not only found equilibrium, but has found the ‘unicorn’ hospo job that has her as excited to head to work, as it does to spend time with family and friends too. https://www.instagram.com/bronkabb/?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 spending three years planning his next restaurant taking him in a new culinary direction the pandemic landed and stopped Ben Williamson (Agnes Restaurant, Brisbane), and his team in his tracks literally a week befoe they were due to open. Without an audience, and with a concept that doesn’t suit takeaway, they put the wood-fire ovens to work baking bread and it proved so popular, it’s become an extension of their business. https://agnesrestaurant.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://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/dirty-linen-a-food-podcast-with-dani-valent/id1518946986 The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

The hospitality industry is renowned for slim profit margins, a reliance on high turnover, and for being slow adapters to modern technology. With the pandemic changing the way we think and operate, could technology save restaurants, cafes and pubs, and even make them prosper from adversity? A clever online platform developed by Kim Teo (Mr Yum) is part of the throng of start ups not only changing the way hospitality businesses function, but ensuring they maintain their true hospitality nature too. This episode of Deep in the Weeds was made in partnership with Mr Yum. https://about.mryum.com/#header 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 seeing all of weddings and events cancelled or postponed Alastair McCleod (Al’FreshCo Catering) remodeled his catering business to create meals for the local community. The impact of such has created a new path for his business, where a greater connection to the growers, farmers and food lovers of the region has become an integral part of the business moving forward. https://alastairmcleod.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

After opening a dream, ten-seater restaurant and capturing the attention of the industry and food media in the very first year, Sarah and Tim Scott (Joy, Brisbane) had no option but to close the quaint restaurant for 6 months once the pandemic hit because social distancing and restrictions meant it was impossible to seat guests. After deciding to go their separate ways, Sarah took over the business and with the help of a front of house pro, she’s not only keeping the essence of Joy as they intended, but finding and exploring a new creative side that she’d never tapped into. https://www.joyrestaurant.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://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/dirty-linen-a-food-podcast-with-dani-valent/id1518946986 The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

After taking on a new role with a mission to raise the bar in regards to pub dining, Julian Nikiel (Alala’s, Oaks Hotel, Neutral Bay) saw all his plans scuppered when the pandemic landed. In a venue used to 1500 guests at a time and a huge kitchen crew, they not only had to let almost the entire brigade go, but devise a menu that could keep money coming in and customers happy too. Now with restrictions easing, Nikiel’s ethos of quality produce cooked simply is back on the agenda with the heavy momentum of promise into 2021. https://www.oakshotel.com.au/alalas/ https://www.instagram.com/juliannikiel/?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

Although the strict Western Australian lockdown restrictions felt over the top at first and the need for tourists is evident, Peter Manifis (Kailis Fish Market Café, Fremantle, WA) believes the short term pain has enabled the state to get back on its feet faster than most. After cooking at a festival for 120 people, he’s preparing for a huge outdoor feast for a staggering 650 people. This is the ‘new norm’ in Western Australia, shut off from the rest of Australia but with life almost back to normal. https://www.instagram.com/chefpetermano/?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 cutting her teeth in Australian restaurants, Katherine Bont (Punk Royale, Stockholm, Sweden) left Australia for the first time at the age of 21 on a global culinary adventure that saw her work in Thailand, the Caribbean, Japan and at the world’s number one restaurant, Noma in Denmark. Now part of one of Sweden’s most Avant-garde restaurant groups she’s relishing the new challenge, but with no sign of international travel, she’s missing her family in Australia more than ever. https://www.instagram.com/katherinebont/?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 four years dealing with construction around his popular venue Darren Purchese (Burch & Purchese) felt like he had systems at the ready when the pandemic landed to deal with another huge impact on his business. Switching to completely online and closing the walk in retail store to survive he’s realised not only the financial benefits but the personal freedoms it’s giving him too. As a result, the new changes are here to stay. https://www.burchandpurchese.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

Once the shock of lockdown wore off, Iain Todd (Saffire Freycinet, Tasmania) realised that he was emotionally and physically fatigued. After working his entire career, putting every ounce of energy into cheffing, the chance to get some rest sent his body into shock and he ended up in hospital with pneumonia during the peak of the pandemic. But, invaluable time with family, including attending his sons first birthday made him realise the value of work/life balance, and it’s shaping the way he runs the restaurant. https://saffire-freycinet.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://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/dirty-linen-a-food-podcast-with-dani-valent/id1518946986 The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

With winter fast approaching and the United Kingdom in the grips of a second lockdown, award-winning restaurateur Mitch Tonks (The Seahorse restaurant and Rockfish restaurants) knows that tough times lie ahead. But inspired by the industry’s will, determination, and innate ability to adapt and evolve he believes a new dawn of the hospitality will emerge from tragic circumstances. https://www.mitchtonks.co.uk 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

On a trip to Lakes Entrance with front of house pro Andy Emerson, Jesse McTavish (Bar Elvina) lit a fire and cooked local produce under the stars while they reminisced about old school hospitality. In that moment the two hatched a plan to not only capture the heart of hospitality, but ensure a new working model that will keep it viable long into the future too. https://www.barelvina.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://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/dirty-linen-a-food-podcast-with-dani-valent/id1518946986 The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

After taking maternity leave following the birth of her first child, Trisha Greentree (10 William Street + Fratelli Paradiso) returned to lead the team just three weeks before lock down. Although the experience was tough, she found strength in being with her team to pull through its toughest period, and it’s lead to new role of executive chef across two of Sydney’s most celebrated venues. http://10williamst.com.au https://www.instagram.com/tgreentree/?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

Last time we caught up with Mark Jensen (Red Lantern) he was trying everything to keep the business alive, including hiring the help of Keith a part time restaurant manager and full time mannequin. Jensen had found what he believed to be a new, sustainable restaurant model, but things have evolved even further since and he's cutting out a new career on the side. https://www.redlantern.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://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/dirty-linen-a-food-podcast-with-dani-valent/id1518946986 The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

After spending a year building his dream restaurant in Bali, Greg Feck (Vaporetto and Squid Inc) had to fly home to help run his Melbourne restaurant in Australia when the pandemic landed, leaving a restaurant half built overseas. Although the financial strain has been heavy, the community support, including their Hawthorn Neighbour ANZ letting them use its car park for outdoor dining, has been so overwhelming it’s given him new energy to not only ensure the longevity of his restaurant in Australia, but open the doors in Bali once borders open. https://www.instagram.com/chefgregfeck/ 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

Today the South Australian Premier sent the state into lockdown, closing schools, universities and stopping restaurants, takeaway shops, cafes and food courts from trading for 6 days. It’s a heart breaking blow for the industry and we caught up with three of the most influential hospitality professionals in South Australia as news broke to get their take on the impact it will have on the industry. https://chefsonwheels.com.au https://leighstreetwineroom.com https://www.africola.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://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/dirty-linen-a-food-podcast-with-dani-valent/id1518946986 The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

With a restaurant and bar licensed for 1000 customers in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD, Tony Twitchett (Taxi Kitchen and Transit Bar) had reservations about opening the doors without the foot traffic and inner city workers. But keen to get out after extended lockdown, Melbournians have not only been queuing to get into his popular venue, but have been keen to stick to the rules to ensure Melbourne’s safe passage away from a possible third lockdown. https://taxikitchen.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://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/dirty-linen-a-food-podcast-with-dani-valent/id1518946986 The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

Just three weeks after restaurants opened and restrictions started to ease, Gabrielle Webster (Icebergs Dining Room) was in a high-speed head-on car accident and almost died. After being airlifted to hospital and multiple surgeries, she’s undergoing intensive rehabilitation. Feeling partly lucky to be alive, and dealing with the throes of recovery, the time has given her pause to realise just how important the hospitality industry is, and how much she is yearning to get back on the floor to ply her trade. https://www.instagram.com/mistressofthevine/ https://idrb.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

After taking the plunge for the very first time as restaurateurs buying a successful, award-winning establishment Dorothy Lee and Jarrod Walsh (Hartsyard, Newtown) found it hard finding their own identity. But when the pandemic landed it allowed them to stop everything and rethink their business model and for the first time the restaurant feels like a true extension of their personalities and has become a testing grounds for future endeavours. https://hartsyard.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://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/dirty-linen-a-food-podcast-with-dani-valent/id1518946986 The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

After losing her job when Brisbane’s award-winning restaurant Arc Dining closed at the start of the pandemic, Ceri Kidby-Salom (Alba Bar and Deli, Brisbane) took a moment to pause and reflect on her time in the industry, what she wanted to get out of and, importantly what she wanted to put into the industry. The time has made her realize that now, more than ever, the mental and physical health of those in the hospitality sector needs to be addressed and she’s determined to break old habits and create a new, healthy culture for hospitality. https://www.instagram.com/healthypartygirl/?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

For those in the industry, inspiration comes from travel and food experiences – but with international travel off the cards in the foreseeable future Kylie Ball (Harvest, Newrybar) worried not only how our industry professionals will find inspiration and vital global experience, but how so many restaurants will survive in Australia without the influx of vital tourists too. After an incredible and high energy career as general manager of Quay, to organising the World’s Best Restaurant awards down under, circumstances caused by the pandemic found her moving to regional New South Wales, where she’s thriving in a new way of life that’s changed her for good. https://harvestnewrybar.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://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/dirty-linen-a-food-podcast-with-dani-valent/id1518946986 The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

18 years ago George Kasimatis (George’s on Waymouth) opened the first restaurant on Waymouth Street Adelaide serving breakfast and lunch. It became one of the most influential restaurants in the City of Churches, but when the pandemic landed he almost saw his life’s work disappear overnight. After some clever pivots and time to plan he’s changed the restaurant operations to not only give the restaurant new air in the lungs, but a new future full of promise too. https://www.georgesonwaymouth.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://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/dirty-linen-a-food-podcast-with-dani-valent/id1518946986 The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

After questioning how we eat and where our food comes from Mark LaBrooy (Three Blue Ducks) went on a journey to only eat food we either grew , caught or harvested. When the pandemic landed it put the financial strain took its toll but becoming a father for the first time not only delivered the clarity of what’s important but it made him more determined than ever to find a greater connection with the land, sea and what we consume from it. https://www.threeblueducks.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

After her mother passed away Monica Luppi (Lu Lu’s) realised the fleetingness of life and left the corporate world in search of a career focussed on her true passion – food. She landed a dream job at Oz Harvest and built a successful pop food business, but the pandemic landed and halted everything. But after too many chillies she got busy turning them into chilli oil which, through a few turn of events, caught the eye of food lovers and set her on a new food journey. https://www.instagram.com/lulus.sydney/?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

As Hong Kong emerges from its third wave of covid-19 Jowett Yu (Ho Lee Fook, Hong Kong) delivers an incredible account of the toll from political tension, impact of the pandemic and the concerns about the future of the restaurant industry in one the world’s great food destinations. https://www.holeefook.com.hk 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

With a small hole in the wall coffee shop in an area normally full of office workers Anthony Svilicich (Neighbourhood Specialty Coffee) lost in excess of 70% of trade when the pandemic landed. With support from locals in the area and some workers back in the city, things picked up marginally but it meant the government support ended. With turnover still way below normal it has forced him to either let go of staff and run the business solo, or potentially close the doors for good. https://www.instagram.com/neighbourhoodspecialty/?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

With a restaurant in tropical North Queensland Nick Holloway (Nu Nu Restaurant, Palm Cove) has dealt with monsoons, cyclones and peaks and troughs of tourists as the seasons change. One to look for the positives and opportunities, the pandemic landed and although it had extreme challenges he’s approached it as simply just another hurdle with its own set of solutions and the period has delivered amazing opportunities and a chance to entrench his offering further into the local community. https://www.nunu.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://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/dirty-linen-a-food-podcast-with-dani-valent/id1518946986 The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

In one of the most powerful episodes of the series we caught up with Dan Barber (Blue Hill New York and Blue Hill Stone Barns) during service on the first night he welcomed guests back into his restaurant since the lockdown in March. With the country on the edge of a precipice thanks to the most important election of its history, he shares a road map forward, and how the pandemic has changed him forever. https://www.bluehillfarm.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

After spending the last few years supplying Qantas, boutique hotels and quality cafes her handmade, fermented Crumpets, the pandemic landed and Merna Taouk (Crumpets by Merna) saw 80% of her business disappear overnight. After some soul-searching she teamed up with Pepe Saya and launched an online retail offering which sent her business on a new trajectory – including one week of 24-hour around the clock production where she handmade 20,000 crumpets to keep up with demand. https://crumpetsbymerna.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://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/dirty-linen-a-food-podcast-with-dani-valent/id1518946986 The Crackling with Anthony Huckstep https://linktr.ee/thecrackling

After growing up in the family restaurant North of Hobart, Tasmania Massimo Mele (Grain of Silos) climbed the career ladder fast, winning Young chef of the year and making a name for himself in Sydney. But keen to settle with his young family he returned to his home state and found that the Tasmania he left behind had evolved into a vibrant food hub, that has brought him closer to ingredients, those who produce them and setting him on a nostalgic path set by his family. https://www.instagram.com/chefmassimomele/?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

With a heavy reliance on travellers, conventions and events that can take years in the making Shannon Craig (QT Canberra) not only had hotel occupancies fall off a cliff, but forward bookings major events ruled out too. With one of the company pillars focussed on locals, they further entrenched themselves in the local community with the restaurant full of locals every night. With a new found focus, she’s steering the QT in a new direction with a stronger sense of place. https://www.qthotels.com/canberra/ 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

She made a name for herself at New York's Two Hands but headed home for a new adventure, but when the pandemic landed Frankie Cox (Black Barn Farm) lost what she considered was a pandemic-proof job. With a need to keep money coming in she created a tuckshop model to help families doing home schooling, but after major health complications, she went in search of solutions, first at a regenerative farm and with a soon-to-be launched project focussing on connection, seasons and nourishment. https://instagram.com/coxfrankie?igshid=x4opuwp1qbf6 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