Dinner with the Angels: Interview with Nicky Reimer
The World Loves Melbourne interviewed leading Melbourne Chef from Union Dining, Nicky Riemer about Dinner with the Angels.
TWLM: This will be the fifth year you have taken part in Anglicare Victoria’s gala dinner – how have you found the experience each year?
Nicky: Five years of fantastic gala events! Each year has been hard to top, I usually end the night with “well next year can’t top this”, and they always do. I think this is because there are always new chefs involved who bring new ideas and flavours to the amazing menus. We are all split up into different areas of the kitchens so there is always a fresh new energy and “good times” vibe.
TWLM: How important is it to give something back to a worthy charity such as Anglicare Victoria and help children who need it most?
Nicky: Through the work that Anglicare Victoria does I see all children of our community having better opportunities in life, they will get to follow their dreams, and you never know, that may be wanting to become a chef! So if I can use my set of skills as a chef to provide a delicious dinner for guests who will donate to this charity then it’s a win / win situation.
TWLM: What is your opinion on the state of the Melbourne foodie scene?
Nicky: Melbourne food is at it’s very best. A mix of multiculturalism means a diverse dining community. From food trucks to dining in the country, I don’t think any other city can top us! I have been cooking (and dining!) in Melbourne for over 20 years and never ever get bored, there is always something new to eat and learn!
TWLM: Do we stack up internationally?
Nicky: I may not have travelled all over the world, but I have visited some quite amazing cities and I am always amazed at how well our ingredients and dining establishments compare. Right here in Victoria we have some of the best farmers and local producers who supply our restaurants with their best wares! I wouldn’t want to work anywhere else.
TWLM: Any hints on what we could expect you to cook for this year’s event?
Nicky: I am a “classic cook”, I love to use classic techniques like braising, pickling, roasting and I always love to feature the best ingredient from a local Victorian farmer. Might be some sensational saltbush lamb from Northern Victoria. But you have to wait and see, it’s always a surprise on the night! One things for sure, it will be generous.
TWLM: How does Dinner with the Angels rate in terms of standout events on the Melbourne foodie calendar?
Nicky: I know the Melbourne dining event choices are vast, but I honestly tell everyone that this is a dinner not to be missed. We are a competitive lot in the kitchen, all the chefs involved will try and out do each other so expect a LOT of food with flavour from some pretty generous chefs!
TWLM: Why should corporates and foodies buy tickets and get on board?
Nicky: I say buy a ticket, come and have an amazing feed and feel absolutely terrific because you will be donating to the future of Victoria’s kids, so that all our Victorian kids chase their dreams!
Victorian based charity Anglicare Victoria will hold Dinner with the Angels – A Gastronomique Affair on September 7th to coincide with National Foster Care Week and raise funds for Victorian children living in foster care.
The premier culinary event – a staple on Melbourne’s food and wine calendar - continues to attract Victoria’s top chefs from hatted restaurants and includes signature dishes, fine wine and entertainment.
Scott Pickett, Owner and Head Chef at Northcote’s ‘Estelle Bistro’ and fine dining establishment, ‘Estelle by Scott Pickett’ has been a regular participant in the gala and will again don his apron in 2016. As well as supporting Anglicare Victoria, the chefs are also able to catch up with each other – a rarity in the fast-paced hospitality industry. “It’s always a great night, and chance to have some fun cooking with my peers in the industry," says Mr Pickett. "I am stoked to be involved with Dinner with the Angels again this year. I'm proud to say I have been part of this dinner for years and years now, and it’s a great opportunity to serve up some delicious food for a worthwhile cause,” says Mr Pickett.
Among the chefs who are donating their time, produce and expertise are Nicky Riemer from Union Dining, Dusty Treweek from Bottega, James Kummrow from Fatto, Matt Dempsey from Gladioli, Zac Cribbes from Lucy Liu, Stuart Munro from Merricote, Peter Roddy from Noir, Tim Goegan from Supernormal, Tony Twitchett from Taxi Kitchen, Stuart Bell from Ten Minutes by Tractor, Andy Harmer from The Point Albert Park and Graham Jeffries from Tulip, Rhys Blackley from Circa and Ved Navghare from Tonka.
Fact File
Dinner with the Angels Date: Wednesday 7 September 2016
Time: 6:30pm – 11.45pm
Venue: Peninsula, Central Pier, 161 Harbour Esplanade, Docklands, Melbourne
Cost: $300 per person.
Public enquiries: www.dinnerwiththeangels.org.au
Phone: (03) 9412 6133
About Anglicare Victoria
At Anglicare Victoria our focus is on transforming the futures of children and young people, families and adults. Our work is based on three guiding pillars, Prevent, Protect, and Empower. We are Victoria’s largest foster care provider and provide foster care state-wide. Over 2014-15 we placed 2091 babies, children and young people with foster carers.
