New Zealand’s first MICHELIN Guide restaurant selection ceremony took place last night at the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC), with 110 restaurants in all recognised in some way by the guide that has set the worldwide benchmark for culinary acclaim.
Essence, the restaurant at ROKI Collection Queenstown, which opened less than a year ago with just 15 suites, was the only restaurant to receive two MICHELIN stars in New Zealand.
The 24-seat establishment is helmed by chef Paul Froggatt, who previously led culinary offerings at Huka Lodge and Robertson Lodges – now part of Rosewood – as well as having worked in MICHELIN-starred restaurants in Europe.
“Receiving two Michelin stars is the realisation of a lifelong dream and one of the proudest moments of my career,” said Froggatt.
“It is a recognition that belongs to every member of our team, our chefs and service team whose passion and commitment make Essence what it is every single day.
“I am deeply grateful to my family who have been my rock behind me and the whole team at ROKI for giving me the opportunity to bring my vision to life.
“Together, we have created something that celebrates New Zealand’s incredible produce, its people and its unique sense of place.
“My hope is that every guest leaves not only having enjoyed an exceptional meal, but with a genuine connection to this remarkable country.”
Essence can be offered to business events groups for exclusive use and has two semi-private dining spaces for six people each. Groups do not have to be staying at the hotel to do a takeover of the restaurant.
ROKI Collection Queenstown is also open to exclusive use of its accommodation offering by groups.
Of the 14 other restaurants who received one MICHELIN star, five are in Auckland – Mudbrick, Paris Butter, Tala, The Estate and Ahi. – four were in Queenstown – Amisfield, Kika, Rātā and Sherwood – three were in Wellington – Jano Bistro, Logan Brown and Ortega – and two were in Christchurch – Inati and Tussock Hill.
A further 35 restaurants received a Bib Gourmand for good value good food and another 60 restaurants were chosen to include in MICHELIN Guide Selected.
“It is rare to award such a quantity of stars in a country’s inaugural launch – New Zealand’s performance has been genuinely impressive,” said the international director of the MICHELIN Guide, Gwendal Poullennec.
“The destination presents more than a selection of outstanding restaurants: to our Inspectors, it revealed a contemporary culinary map shaped by unique terroir and a food culture in quiet harmony with nature.
“From the four regions, every city across New Zealand presents a different side of the country’s food culture.
“Yet they all share one central theme: purity.
“It is seen in high-quality seasonal local produce, fresh ingredients gifted by nature and guided by a culinary philosophy that honours their essence, allowing regional character to shine through.
“It is felt too, in the sincere, down-to-earth hospitality found everywhere, from bustling cities to remote small towns.”
