Chefs Corner with Rebecchi’s Chef, Dan Hooper

Rebecchi's is the resident Rutland Street hangout. Beyond the multi-purpose space's cool vibe, the food is a massive talking point.

Their stacked sandwiches are a winner – packed with eye-opening flavour, fresh ingredients, and little twists that make your tongue ready to explore. Hotdogs have become their own beast, spawning a secondary location dedicated to the bun building, and a quick coffee is a must.

We head into the kitchen in our series Chefs Corner to discover the menu, the flavours, and favourites of Rebecchi’s Chef Dan Hooper.

Keep up with the latest food and booze news across the region here.

 

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5 Minutes with Rebecchi’s Chef Dan Hooper

What are you cooking with at the moment?

A few different varieties of dried Mexican chiles, to explore different flavour profiles.

Where is your favourite culinary destination?

Mexico City for sure. The city is massive and vibrant, with beautiful architecture, history, and culture. Obviously the Mexican cuisine is unmatched but you can also find outstanding sushi, French pastry, anything!

 

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What is your favourite food memory?

My favourite food memories are probably helping my dad and grandpa with our pit barbecue. Kind of like a hāngi, but much larger. We’d do most of a cow in pits that were 2m x 3m and 3m deep, cooked overnight over aromatic Mesquite embers.

In your opinion, what makes a dish great?

To me what makes a dish truly great is the flavour. It can look beautiful and have immaculate technique, but if the seasoning isn’t right it can never be truly great.

Who’s currently killing it in the hospitality scene?

Unfortunately I don’t get out as much as I used to but I love what Samesyn is doing to produce as little waste as possible while also making some incredible food.

 

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What dish is always on rotation at home?

Lately we’ve been cooking glazed halloumi wraps with tzatziki and fresh salad for a quick weeknight dinner. Vibrant, fast, and satisfying.

What are you doing when you’re not cooking?

When I’m not cooking I’m probably kicking a ball with my kids. They’re always on the move.

Discover more about Rebecchi’s here, or head in for a feed at 11 Rutland Street, Newtown.