For nearly five decades Tony Astle’s Parnell-based restaurant, Antoine’s, was considered the pinnacle of fine dining in New Zealand. Visiting diners, including Elton John, Rod Stewart, Roger Moore, Alan Whicker and even the late Duke of Edinburgh became regulars, and indeed friends of Tony and his late wife Beth.
Style, good food and Front of House perfection were the order of the day. Patrons had to ring a doorbell to be vetted before entry was granted and customers were often barred for not wearing appropriate clothing. Diners spent thousands on their meals and wines easily fetched up to $20,000 in the hey-day of the 1980’s.
Following the closure of 333 Parnell Road Astle returned to a project started over a decade ago with accomplished journalist Geraldine Johns – the first, perhaps of many books, recording the culinary adventures of a feisty red head from New Brighton who was determined to excel and follow his passion to cook.
Astle’s book, Let Them Eat Tripe is the compelling story of a visionary entrepreneur who had a huge impact on the New Zealand hospitality and dining scene. A mentor to dozens of top chefs, this book contains a wealth of social history while discussing the whims, interesting exploits and behind the scenes activities of a special restaurant kitchen.
The book was launched to loyal friends, former customers, politicians and industry stalwarts on October 10 at AUT, where Astle has been keen to support future graduates of the university’s renown School of Hospitality & Tourism, giving back to an industry that has served him – and New Zealand well.
Let The Eat Tripe: The Story of Antoine’s by Tony Astle with Geraldine Johns, (Bateman Books, RRP $45.00) Look out for our upcoming competition to win one of four copies!
