Jimmy McIntyre - Otahuna Lodge
New Zealand native Jimmy McIntyre has worked in many of New Zealand’s best kitchens over the course of his life. Having started as a teenager, Jimmy has cooked at top restaurants in Auckland and Christchurch before joining Otahuna Lodge as its Executive Chef in 2003.
Renowned for his style of cuisine, Jimmy utilizes the extraordinary bounty of Otahuna’s vast working gardens to design meals that showcase honest, uncluttered flavours, the finest ingredients and elegantly restrained presentation.
Where do you find your inspiration when preparing a new recipe?
Primarily from my faithful kitchen team and the extensive working gardens and surrounding estate at Otahuna Lodge. The seasons dictate our dishes along with the finest ingredients from an exceptional array of regional suppliers.
How would you define your cuisine in a few words?
Seasonal Kiwi Cuisine with a modern yet classical twist.
Which other Relais & Chateaux (Relais Gourmands) Chef would you like to meet?
Thomas Keller – Per Se & French Laundry
Otahuna Lodge
Hotel and restaurant in the country
At the heart of a 19th century Victorian estate, Otahuna Lodge seamlessly knits past and present together: period woodwork, stained glass windows and fifteen working fireplaces combine with a host of modern comforts and a rich collection of contemporary New Zealand art. Outside, Otahuna, which is Maori for little hill among the hills, has striking views over the Canterbury Plains and the Banks Peninsula. The song of native bellbirds invites guests to discover hidden glades, ponds and more than 120 different kinds of organic fruits, vegetables, nuts and mushrooms in the historic gardens. ...Read more
New Zealand, Canterbury
