Auckland restaurant Molten has appointed Alex Aitken as its new head chef.
Aitken takes over from Rensha Bouwer and brings great experience to the role having previously worked at The Grove under award-winning executive chef Ben Bayly as junior sous chef.
“Alex is an accomplished chef whose passion is to create and present delicious food of the very highest quality and standard,” said Molten co-owner Sven Nielsen.
“We are also impressed with his versatility which is evident in his sound knowledge of both classical and modern cooking principles and methodologies.”
Aitken has recently completed refreshing the entire menu at Molten which celebrates produce sourced directly from supplier growers, farmers and fishermen.
“The relationship between chefs and their suppliers is key,” said Aitken. “It’s important to have a massive respect for ingredients and know where your food comes from. Our suppliers are vital to our cooking process, from the likes of Bill French at Leelands Lamb in Waitaki to our friends at Pokeno Butchers next door.”
Aitken said the new menu would change regularly to reflect the changing seasons and showcase the best ingredients available.
