Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour has announced the appointment of its new executive chef, Emmanuel Jerz. A French native, Jerz discovered his passion for gastronomy at a young age and started his culinary journey within renowned hotels and restaurants around the globe, including two Michelin-starred restaurant’s, Guy Savoy at The Ritz Paris and Lasserre.
With over 32 years’ experience, Jerz has enjoyed an illustrious career which has seen him manage and own his own highly esteemed restaurants, serving Prime Ministers and Presidents, and achieving the honour of Trainer Chef and Consultant at Alain Ducasse Education in Paris. Before leaving Paris for New Zealand, Jerz was at the Intercontinental Hotel Paris Le Grand – home to the famous Café de la Paix Restaurant where he led a culinary brigade of 120 of Paris’ finest chefs.
Working in luxury hotels and owning restaurants has provided Jerz with unique opportunities and many challenges which have shaped his dynamic career, exceptional culinary talents and passion for excellence.
“Living in New Zealand is a dream,” he said. “The produce is amongst the finest in the world, and the ‘Kiwis’ are very welcoming. I am excited to introduce diners to my culinary style which blends my passion for classic techniques with New Zealand’s freshest local seafood, produce and proteins. My philosophy when it comes to cooking is to always let the ingredients and the flavours speak first in a dish. By executing the techniques I’ve learnt along the way, I then bring the ingredients to life.”
In his role as Executive Chef at Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour, Jerzwill take the helm of the kitchen at Lava Dining, Sabrage Bar, 21 Viaduct Cafe as well as in-room dining and conferencing.
