Ever wondered what life behind the pass is like? Neil Perry’s inviting you to find out.
Australia’s hospitality industry is growing exponentially. The last few years have seen a spike in the number of people feeling inspired to take on a culinary career, but it’s still not enough to match the boom.
So awarded chef and owner of Rockpool Group, Neil Perry, is doing something about it. On February 21, he’s throwing open the doors to Melbourne’s Rockpool Bar & Grill for an industry-first open day.
“No other restaurants are doing something like this,” he says. “But the hospitality industry as a whole really needs it.”
The open day aims to give people an idea of what Rockpool is like on the other side of the pass. “We want to give those considering a career in hospitality an insight into the people and the business that we are,” says Perry.
Starting at Rockpool Bar & Grill, the behind-the-scenes experience will introduce visitors to sister restaurants Spice Temple and Rosetta too. “They’re all joined together underground.” Neil Perry says. “It’s three different venues operating under one philosophy.”
Neil Perry will be there on the day for looking for people who are eager to learn and ready to grow. “This could be a fantastic career step and something that leads to bigger and better things,” he says.
It’s a common catch-cry for prospective employers, but Perry knows the potential of hospitality better than most. After dropping out of school, he started his career as a waiter at Sydney’s Sails restaurant in 1976. “I was 18 year’s old, and after the first week I couldn’t imagine doing anything else.”
Also in attendance will be Vanessa Crichton. With 10 years' hospitality experience, she started with Rockpool as a manager in 2006 and is now the group's general manager overseeing all three restaurants in Melbourne and Rockpool in Perth.
Inside the kitchen you’ll find head chef Zac Nicholson offering insights and inspiration for a culinary career and a live grill demonstration and tasting. You’ll also find leading sommelier David Lawler along with the group’s talent manager and floor leaders.
“The entire brains-trust will be there and ready to chat,” says Perry, “it’s a rare industry opportunity that there needs to be more of.”
Neil has plans to bring the initiative to Sydney and Perth shortly. To attend the open day, RSVP at rockpool.com
While you’re waiting for the day to arrive, Scout recommends doing a little homework by checking out the Rockpool blog. It’s filled with the group’s latest news, interviews with the team and recipes to hone your skills with.
