They say that you can’t go back. But that is exactly what chef Raphael Martinez has done.
Property and hospitality group Mulpha has appointed Martinez as head chef for Bimbadgen Estate’s flagship restaurant Esca and all related food offerings in the Hunter Valley, including Bimbadgen Wines, Bimbadgen Palmer’s Lane Weddings & Events, Emma’s Cottage and hospitality packages for A Day on The Green Concerts.
The appointment follows the departure of chef Keira Madeley.
“I’m dedicated to ensuring that every dining experience at Esca Bimbadgen is exceptional, with an emphasis on flavour, technique, and presentation,” said Martinez.
“The Hunter Valley has been my family’s home since 2018 and we enjoy everything about wine country life - the people, the stunning landscapes and the exceptional local wines.
“We aim to consistently deliver excellence in food and wine, quality and service,” Martinez says. “Not just in our flagship restaurant Esca but also in our wedding and event venue on Palmers Lane, our Bimbadgen cellar door, and our new addition, Emma’s Cottage.”
Martinez first worked at Esca Bimbadgen in 2018 as a chef de partie and has returned to lead the kitchen in 2024, having gained broad experience in the Hunter Valley’s fine dining scene, including at Spicers Guesthouse and Brokenwood Wines.
Mulpha’s General Manager, Hunter Valley Operations, Jordan Rodgers, said: “We are delighted to welcome Raphael back to Bimbadgen Estate, this time as head chef with an expanded brief, having developed impressive culinary and leadership skills over the intervening years.
“In his new role Raphael will also oversee all food offerings across Bimbadgen and its related outlets, working closely with food and beverage manager Caitlin Bremner to ensure a great food experience whatever the venue or event.”
Under the new regime, guests will continue to enjoy modern-Australian cuisine using “fresh, quality ingredients sourced locally and a creative blend of Asian and Italian influences”.
Mulpha’s General Manager, Hunter Valley Operations, Jordan Rodgers, said: “We are delighted to welcome Raphael back to Bimbadgen Estate, this time as head chef with an expanded brief, having developed impressive culinary and leadership skills over the intervening years.
“In his new role Raphael will also oversee all food offerings across Bimbadgen and its related outlets, working closely with food and beverage manager Caitlin Bremner to ensure a great food experience whatever the venue or event.”
Under the new regime, guests will continue to enjoy modern-Australian cuisine using “fresh, quality ingredients sourced locally and a creative blend of Asian and Italian influences”.
“I’m dedicated to ensuring that every dining experience at Esca Bimbadgen is exceptional, with an emphasis on flavour, technique, and presentation,” said Martinez.
“The Hunter Valley has been my family’s home since 2018 and we enjoy everything about wine country life - the people, the stunning landscapes and the exceptional local wines.
A new summer menu has been released, which will include Korean-style grilled pork belly with ssamjang butter, baby gem, and wild rice; crispy potato gnocchi with pea puree, pecorino and basil; fresh handmade spanner crab ravioli with sauce verge and caviar; and little Joe flank steak with tarro puree, chimichurri and green beans.
Martinez is passionate about chocolate-based dessert and will introduce them to Esca’s menu soon.
“We aim to consistently deliver excellence in food and wine, quality and service,” Martinez says. “Not just in our flagship restaurant Esca but also in our wedding and event venue on Palmers Lane, our Bimbadgen cellar door, and our new addition, Emma’s Cottage.”
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