No plate like home

International influences inspire jewel in Honeysuckle’s culinary crown.

There’s a slim margin between Thermidor and some of the finest hatted and Michelin star-rated restaurants in the world, says co-owner Josh Gregory.

Drawing inspiration from he and his wife Jess’ travels across Europe and America, as well as their extensive fine-dining backgrounds that read like a who’s who of Hunter hospitality, Josh says this ethos drives the oyster bar and brasserie.

“I say in the kitchen constantly, ‘The best chefs and restaurants in the world do the same job as we do’,” he says. “So, we try to emulate them.”

Josh worked at renowned London restaurant The Ledbury for a month in 2013 on a scholarship before the couple spent six months chasing gastronomic delights around the globe.

Between them, they’ve worked stints at Adina, Muse Restaurant, Bistro Molines, EXP, and Flotilla.

A little over a year on from Thermidor’s opening on the Honeysuckle harbourfront, the pair reflect on their journey.

“Our menu has become more refined and ultimately, we’ve grown more confident in ourselves because of how well we’ve been received by the community,” Josh adds.

“Going above and beyond for our guests is the cornerstone of everything we do. If a customer comes in for our champagne sauce, at the end of the night they’ve got the recipe.”

But don’t just take the Gregorys’ word for it. As the weather heats up and the restaurant prepares to launch an expanded outdoor dining area, pop into Thermidor for fresh seafood, crisp cocktails and all-round good vibes and value.

Read more in our Summer Edition of Hunter & Coastal Lifestyle Magazine or subscribe here.

Story by Georgia Osland