There’s a new (executive) chef in our kitchen! Chef Glenn Thompson has moved from down under to take on the role as executive chef and his 30 year career has spanned fine dining restaurants, five star hotels, airlines, and catering services. He’s also worked alongside the world’s who’s who of celebrity culinarians like Jeremiah Tower, Anthony Worrall, and Ken Horne as well as Michelin-ranked chefs that include Maurice Guillouiet, Denis Dupart and David Van Leer.
In 2002, Chef Thompson opened his own restaurant, Zest, which was located in the culinary destination of Nelson Bay. His restaurant won Best New Restaurant and was awarded Restaurant of the Year, along with the coveted One Chefs Hat from SMH Good Food Guide for several consecutive years. The accolades and awards cemented the restaurant as a regional dining institution and established Thompson as one of Australia’s most exciting chefs.
Thompson’s philosophy is to pass it forward. “I’m fortunate to have learned from many great chefs and enjoy the mentor role. Giving young chefs the right skill set and assisting their career path is a great contribution to the industry. One of my proudest accomplishments is to see them cooking in the world’s best restaurants like French laundry, Tetsuya’s, Attica and The Ledbury.”
Now in his Canadian culinary debut, between galas, events and menu development, we had the chance to sit down with Chef Thompson for a fun Q&A.
Where did you learn to cook? How did you discover your passion for food?
My grandmother taught me how to cook. Whenever she used to babysit me I would always be in the kitchen learning new things.
What is the most exotic thing you have eaten?
Fried tarantula.
What is your favourite dish to eat?
I love to eat anything cooked over a fire pit.
On your day off, where can we find you? What would you be doing?
On my days off I enjoy spending time outdoors with my family and friends.
Who is the most famous person you have cooked for?
I have cooked for many people but would have loved to have cooked for Joel Robuchon.
Your favourite thing to drink is?
A gin and tonic with cucumber.
Sushi, steak or pizza?
Steak.
What would people be surprised to know about you?
That I built a house with my wife.
Its 4am on a Saturday night, what would you eat?
Anything deep fried.
