New head chef at Harry’s Deli at Wirra Wirra, Taiaha Ngawiki chats about the best freshly shucked oysters in France and the importance of slowing down.
Describe the best day of your life.
When my eldest son was born, it was a life changing moment that I was not ready for. The moment he came into the world blew me away and brought a feeling of the utmost respect for my wife. Absolutely amazing and incredible.
What brings you joy in life?
A balance of art and physical activity. I love to cook even though it is my profession, and I love music. I also love to train in martial arts, kayak and ride bikes. These are best shared with my children.
What is the best photograph you have?
Best photograph I have was taken six years ago when my son was only a week old.
What is the hardest lesson you’ve had to learn?
The hardest lesson I have had to learn is to slow down and appreciate life. Often both as chef and in my personal life I have had a “go go go” attitude but since having children and maturing in the hospitality game I have had to learn the hard way to slow down, smell the roses and wait for the bread to rise.
What’s the best advice you’ve been given?
The best advice I have been given is not to take shortcuts and to be honest with oneself. Hard work and passion are behind everything I do. Many times the hard road with both love and food is the most rewarding and lasts a life time.
Describe the best meal you’ve ever eaten.
Moule et Frite and freshly shucked oysters in La Rochelle, an old French cobbled town. The local white wine and butter shallot sauce with the mussels was a beautiful contrast to the French fries and citrus oysters straight from the local ocean.
What are the best qualities of your favourite person?
My wife. Honesty and passion. Perfect combination.
Best five songs on your playlist?
Could You Be Loved – Bob Marley
Come Together – The Beatles
Dear Mama – Tupac
Use Me – Bill Withers
Wild World – Cat Stevens
My life philosophy is…
When any trade or work is done to its highest level, it becomes art, this is the only way to truly live life to the fullest.
