About Us
Introducing Chef Nikki Pennefather
Chef Nikki is Michelin-trained and has enjoyed her years of culinary experience in some of the world’s exceptional restaurants, lodges and mega yachts.
Her gastronomic adventures began in South Africa where she studied cooking and hotel management. Nikki worked alongside Andrew Pern in the renowned Star Inn at Harome restaurant in the UK. And before moving to New Zealand in 2008, she was a private chef aboard a Mediterranean luxury mega yacht.
In New Zealand she was executive chef at Braemar Lodge and then sous chef at Huka Lodge before starting her own café, Spoon and Paddle’ with husband, Mike.
Since selling the café, Nikki and her family has moved to the country to raise their children and find her roots. Wild Roots!
“I have a huge love and respect for food and can’t imagine not be able to share this!
“That’s where you come in.Whatever the reason when you connect through food you create a special time, and I’m all about good, honest food that celebrates the incredible ingredients we have here in Aotearoa/New Zealand.”
Our Philosophy
We turn your dinner parties and events into a night to remember, bringing great food and luxury into the comfort of your own home.
We are very conscious of where all our food comes from. New Zealand has so much incredible produce and so many amazing, ethical farmers and producers, a lot of them right here in Taupo. To ensure you get the best product possible we use fresh, seasonal produce and even source some of your ingredients here on our lifestyle property in Taupo.
We are not a big catering company and usually only take on one or two jobs on at a time so we can guarantee that you and your event will be our priority.
Ready to experience fine dining at home?
Let us make it happen – it’s what we love to do.