Meet the Chef
ROD RAMSAY
The kitchen is the heart of every home and for Rod Ramsay, it’s where
his culinary curiosity began. Coming from a large Scottish family,
Rod is one of 8 children and his household task was to do the baking
which began at age 10. His family moved from Scotland spending
time in both New Zealand and Australia.
His career began in the Sheraton in Perth before moving to the
Whitsundays in 2010 with his wife and son.
Rod commented, “As you come over the hill into Airlie Beach, it’s like a
holiday and work all wrapped into a special package. We have some
amazing places to see and to dine at here, why would you leave?”
He recently became Head Chef at The Deck, a modern restaurant with
picturesque water views of the Whitsundays.
What do you recommend on the menu?
You can’t go past the local seafood, it’s incredible. Our beef cheek
entrée, fishcakes and arancini are also fantastic. We have a new menu
coming in the New Year with some excitingly delicious food, come in and
try it!”
Who inspires you as a chef?
“My customers, and myself. If you don’t have passion for this industry, then
get out, you are wasting your life and the life of our industry. I remember
going to Ramsay’s kitchen in London, the food didn’t impress me, but the
service was second to none. This is what inspires me, exceptional service
to our customers.”
What is the secret to running a good kitchen?
“With calmness. In the heat of the moment, stay calm and consistent. I
don’t tolerate anyone in my kitchen losing their temper. My front of house
team have a really hard job, they are the backbone of the restaurant. If
you treat them with respect, your customers will leave The Deck having had
their best dining experience.”
