Houghton Wines head chef Herb Faust.
Camera IconHoughton Wines head chef Herb Faust. Credit: Supplied/Bruce Hunt www.communitypix.com.au d473951

Swan Valley: former Iron Chef Australia contestant loving life as head chef at Houghton Wines

Lisa ThomasThe Advocate

SWAN Valley chef Herb Faust was first brought to our attention while competing on the TV show Iron Chef Australia more than six years ago, but now he is known for his food at Houghton Wines restaurant.

Faust took on the restaurant more than a year ago taking it from humble platters and share plates, to a hearty ala carte menu, drawing inspiration from flavours around the world.

He said coming from a Thai Buddhist background the idea of food being about sharing with people you love was ingrained in him at a young age.

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He said being half German and half Thai had also given him inspiration when it came to his cooking.

“I was previously just running my catering company Herb Faust, so this is my first time running a venue,” he said.

“It’s been a very exciting experience and we were really lucky to tender here in the beautiful Houghton Wines and in the Swan Valley.”

Faust was one of six contestants chosen to compete against some of the world’s best chef’s on Iron Chef Australia and the only one to beat his opposition chef, the renowned Guy Grossi.

Faust said although that was his claim to fame, he has been working hard in the background on his craft and business since the show ended.

“I draw on global influences with the menu, especially my heritage,” he said.

He said although the dining experience had come a long way in the past year, there were still platters and share plates on the menu.

“We want to still offer that relaxed dining experience,” he said.

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