Renowned for his fusion of flavours, Chef Son will craft menus inspired by New Zealand’s produce and global culinary trends.
Hotel Indigo Auckland has appointed chef Yutak Son as its Executive Chef. A classically trained culinary artist with a mastery of French techniques and Korean influences, Yutak will oversee the hotel’s restaurant, bar, café, and in-room dining menus, bringing his signature fusion of flavours to Auckland’s newest lifestyle hotel.
Born in South Korea and raised in New Zealand, Yutak refined his craft in some of the country’s most renowned kitchens. His career includes respectable roles at Sidart, Orphans Kitchen, Black Estate, Daily Bread, and The Shed at Te Motu Vineyard on Waiheke Island. Most recently, Yutak served as Executive Head Chef for Namu Group, where he helmed trendy eateries including Tobi and Gemmi, earning a reputation for creating innovative dishes that champion local ingredients.
“We are delighted to welcome Chef Yutak Son to Hotel Indigo Auckland where he will lead our dining venues and bring our exciting concepts to life,” said Mathew Simister, General Manager of Hotel Indigo Auckland.
“His passion for showcasing New Zealand’s fresh produce through inventive techniques, combined with his multicultural gastronomic perspective, perfectly aligns with Hotel Indigo’s ethos to creating authentic and memorable dining experiences.”
Fresh Culinary Identity
Yutak’s appointment marks the start of an exciting journey for Hotel Indigo Auckland as it introduces a fresh culinary identity to the city. Guests can anticipate a French-inspired bistro (Bistro Saine), café-come-wine bar, and a sophisticated cocktail bar and lounge. These venues will evoke the chic ambiance of New York, London, and Paris bistros and bars while highlighting New Zealand’s bold and fresh flavours through a fusion of traditional and contemporary French cuisine.
Hotel Indigo Auckland’s dining venues, designed in consultation with leading Australian hospitality design firm Ingram Advisory, are slated to open progressively from March 2025 onwards.
Situated on Albert Street in Auckland’s midtown, the 225-room Hotel Indigo Auckland stands as one of the city’s tallest buildings, offering breath taking views of the skyline and harbour from most rooms.