Jonathan Barthelmess announced today that Ben Russell will join his restaurant team as Executive Chef, Brisbane Operations to support the group’s Brisbane expansion.
Russell will oversee GRECA and Barthelmess’s new Japanese eatery, due to open November 2019.
Russell joins the team from ARIA Brisbane, where he spent 10 years as Head Chef, prior to the restaurant closing last month. Russell will bring a wealth of local and international fine dining experience to the table and an extensive Brisbane network to the team.
GRECA opened in late 2018 within the heritage Howard Smith Wharves precinct. A contemporary take on the traditional Greek taverna, the menu is focused around communal eating and pays homage to the Mediterranean generosity that sister Sydney restaurant The Apollo is renowned for.
The new restaurant will be a waterfront, Japanese izakaya and bar inspired by Barthelmess’s time spent in Tokyo (where he owns The Apollo) and his acclaimed restaurant Cho Cho San in Potts Point, Sydney. The menu will feature a raw section based on sustainable seafood, specially sourced and selected Wagyu beef, and an extensive sake and wine list.
Russell commenced his role as Executive Chef, Brisbane Operations in July 2019.
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