Recognised across the industry both nationally and abroad, this annual award is given to recognise the skill, expertise and talent of a select group of outstanding chefs, who consistently deliver world-class New Zealand beef and lamb dishes to their guests. Diners across the country have come to understand the significance of the award, and acknowledge that where you see the Beef + Lamb Excellence Award, you can expect tasty, skilfully composed and superbly presented beef and lamb dishes.
In their 20th year, the Beef + Lamb New Zealand Excellence Awards are the nation’s longest running culinary awards. As well as receiving recognition for their outstanding cookery skill, the Ambassadors are involved in special Beef + Lamb New Zealand events held throughout the year including ‘The Ambassador Series’ in which each Ambassador holds a ticketed degustation dinner in their restaurant to highlight their talent with beef and lamb, a highlight in the New Zealand culinary calendar.
“Andi Bozhiqi joins a line-up of four other very talented chefs who have reached an incredible standard of cookery. We are excited to have him on board as a 2016 Beef + Lamb New Zealand Ambassador Chef,” says Rod Slater, CEO, Beef + Lamb New Zealand.
Andi began his career in London, gaining invaluable experience at some of the leading restaurants in the UK and Europe. He has since then developed a clear style he describes as Modern European and his presence at the Millhouse Restaurant at Millbrook Resort has brought with it a creativity in dishes and flavour combinations seen rarely in the New Zealand culinary sphere.
“Andi is a huge asset to Millbrook and his talent is one set for much more recognition”, Director of Operations Brian Howie explained, ‘Andi’s ability to tell a story with each dish is incredible and takes our guests on a journey with each visit to the Millhouse. We are delighted he has been recognised with this award and the Millhouse has become a ‘must-visit’ restaurant in Queenstown because of his talent.”
Andi’s responsibilities at Millbrook do not end at the Millhouse; as Executive Chef for the resort he oversees and works alongside the other chefs to creates the unique menus for Kobe Cuisine, a contemporary Japanese restaurant, the Hole in One Café, and The Clubhouse. He also oversees a large function team that caters for on-site weddings, corporate retreats and conferences.
Andi has always been focused on utilising the freshest of produce and is inspired by the landscape around him. This focus continues today, he credits much of his dish inspiration from the local Central Otago area, such as chestnuts, apricots, pears and wild berries, all of which grow down by the lakeside near his restaurant.
This inspiration can be seen in the Millhouse Restaurant’s signature dish – with Cardrona Merino Lamb sourced from the mountains surrounding the restaurant, who eat wild thyme and herbs which give the lamb its unique flavour. The meat is complimented by the rich flavour of local goat’s cheese foam and a fig beignet.
Millbrook also looks forward to showcasing Andi’s talent at the Ambassador Series Degustation in mid-2016.
For further media information please contact:
E: marketing@millbrook.co.nz
About Millbrook Resort and Andi Bozhiqi
Millbrook Resort is set amongst 500 acres of breath-taking scenery, including rolling hills, lush gardens and 360° mountain views. With luxurious accommodation, a 27-hole championship golf course which is co-host to the BMWISPS Handa New Zealand Open, four exceptional restaurants, an award-winning spa and Health & Fitness centre and conference facilities, it offers a complete sensory experience for every type of traveller.
The Millhouse Restaurant turns out a seasonal menu of elegant dishes, each with a European influence that showcase the chef’s relationships with local farmers and artisans, and accompanied by an award winning wine list. Housed in the original flour mill, The Millhouse features a warm and intimate environment, with views over the Mill Pond and 18th hole..
Kobe Cuisine is one of these stunning restaurants; set overlooking Lake Hayes. Kobe offers some of the best Japanese in the region, with contemporary sharing style dishes focusing on fresh ingredients and beautiful presentation.
The Hole in One Café is a popular casual dining spot for members, locals and visitors alike. The perfect spot for a contemporary café lunch or dinner in the sunshine, the Hole in One café offers a range of options from pastries and coffee treats, healthy salads, stone oven pizzas and children’s options.
The Clubhouse is Millbrook’s breakfast venue, as well as host to our country club member’s events, it also is a stunning wedding and conference venue.
Millbrook Resort also has a large function team that caters for beautiful on-site weddings, corporate retreats and conferences.
www.millbrook.co.nz
