Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa announces the appointment of its new Executive Chef, highly-acclaimed Jorg Penneke. German born Penneke has discovered his passion for gastronomy at a young age while cooking at home. After completing an apprenticeship at one of the most high-profile restaurants in East Berlin – GDR “Café Moscow”, Penneke’s sense of adventure and desire to explore new and exquisite flavours has taken him to kitchens all over the world, including Europe and Pacific.
32 years of illustrious and multi-faceted career exposed Penneke to a plethora of inspired cuisines, exotic countries, vast variety of ingredients, kitchens and teams. Luxury hotels, restaurants, legendary ocean cruise liners and more intimate river cruise ships presented Penneke with unique challenges and exhilarating opportunities to work alongside the most distinguished culinary teams. This dynamic career path has shaped his exceptional culinary vision, love for food diversity and endless passion for excellence. From Classic French to Italian, German, Asian, South American and Pacific, Joerg’s cuisine knowledge and ability to effortlessly infuse a myriad cuisines and culinary influences has become his speciality.
Penneke’s food philosophy is an ingenious result of his longevity and inspiring culinary career. According to Penneke, good food does not need to be complicated, simplicity is key.
“A sense of adventure and a can do attitude are staple in crafting magical gastronomic delights,” he said. “Presentation, flavour and colour combined with fresh produce and traditional way of cooking are vital elements in making any dish exceptional.”
In his role as Executive Chef at Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa, Penneke will be responsible for Left Bank Café, 1789 Wine & Jazz Lounge, as well as in room dining and conferencing. Penneke’s wealth of culinary inspiration, creativity and impeccable attention to detail are synonymous with the refined ethos of Sofitel gastronomy.
“Sofitel chefs across the world are famous for innovative approach to gastronomy and ability to elegantly transform meals into inspiring journeys and culinary art,” he said. “I am excited to continue to offer unparalleled dining experiences at Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa and working with the talented team of this 5-star luxury hotel in the heart of an alpine village.”
