Sample Food Festival Announces Two-Hat Chef

With the fifth annual Sample Food Festival just four months away, festival director Remy Tancred has announced this week that two-hatted chef James Viles of Biota Dining will be one of this year’s guest chefs.

James was the youngest chef to be awarded a chef's hat during his time at Bowral’s The Schoolhouse Restaurant at the age of 23. He has worked internationally as Executive Chef at The Chedi Muscat, GHM Hotels (Voted No. 1 Resort - Middle East, African and Indian Ocean by Conde Nast Traveller’s Awards 2008), at the Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Dubai, and alongside two-star Michelin chef Hans Haas of Tantris (Munich) as well as Alain Ducasse of Spoon (Hong Kong).

Closer to home, he gained invaluable knWe are delighted to have him!ffowledge in the kitchens at The Observatory, Mint Bar & Dining (The Intercontinental), The Sofitel Hotel Melbourne, Jonah’s Restaurant and Milton Park. James’s individual flair and innovation are an amalgamation of his overseas and local experience resulting in the April 2011 launch of his own restaurant - Biota Dining in Bowral. The food is produce- and technique-driven with a close affiliation to nature.

“Biota is a dining experience supporting both local farmers and growers. We focus on artisanal produce and incorporate seasonal botanicals in all aspects of our menus and environment. Our constant study of and devotion to the extraction of taste and aroma in all plant form is an integral part of our cycle”, said James.

Sample Food Festival director Remy Tancred said ‘James Viles is a perfect fit for Sample: his philosophy and love for farmers and producers are exactly what my festival promotes.’  We are delighted to have him!