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The winners have been announced in the Otago Hospitality awards, presented by the Restaurant Association with the support of Trents. These awards celebrate the best dining establishments and individuals in the region as voted by the hospitality industry.
Italian / Latin fusion restaurant Cucina, located in the heart of Oamaru, has secured an impressive three awards including Outstanding Restaurant and the People’s Choice Award.
Cucina prioritises fresh, locally-sourced produce to ensure exceptional quality. The journey of Yanina & Pablo Tacchini from a holiday visit to a deep-rooted connection with Oamaru led to the creation of Cucina. Drawing inspiration from their South American heritage and a blend of Italian and Spanish ancestry, Cucina presents a unique fusion of flavours.
Cucina also takes out the award for Supreme Establishment.
The Outstanding Chef category saw fierce competition, with nominees including Sam Sinclair of Heritage Coffee and Logan Wilson of No.7 Balmac, but the award went to Hannes Bareiter of Tītī who also took home the award for Supreme Individual.
German-born Bareiter found his passion for cooking at 17 and pursued an apprenticeship and master’s degree in culinary arts. He has worked in various settings, from retirement homes to Michelin-starred restaurants. At Tītī, the menu changes every three weeks, reflecting seasonal produce and current trends. Known for their creativity, Bareiter and his team experiment with unique ingredients and techniques.
While fine dining establishments like Tītī showcase culinary creativity, the Otago region also celebrates exceptional casual and street food.
The region’s best casual/street food spots were recognised, with Indian eatery Chilli Dhaba taking home the award for Outstanding Street Food / Casual Dining.
Those looking for the region’s best cocktails should check out Woof! where the award for Outstanding Bartender went to Josh Thomas.
Central Otago is renowned for its exceptional fine wines, and this year’s Outstanding Winery award went to Terra Sancta.
“Otago’s hospitality industry is truly special, notable for incredibly hospitable people who make every visit memorable. These venues are also fantastic places to sample the region’s outstanding local produce, showcasing the best of what Otago has to offer.
“It is crucial that we take the time to pause and celebrate our successes, recognising the hard work and passion that our peers pour into their craft. These awards are a testament to the remarkable talent and innovation that make Otago a standout destination, and they provide an opportunity for us to honour the individuals and establishments that elevate our region’s hospitality industry.”
For more information regarding the awards, click here.
Otago Hospitality Awards 2024 Winners
Alliance Outstanding Restaurant
- Cucina
Outstanding Street Food / Casual Dining
- Chilli Dhaba
Anchor Food Professionals Outstanding Chef
- Hannes Bareiter, Tītī
Campari Outstanding Bartender
- Josh Thomas, Woof!
Outstanding Central Otago Winery
- Terra Sancta
OneMusic Outstanding Ambience & Design
- Pequeño Lounge Bar
Silver Fern Farms Emerging Chef
- Michael Hanrahan, Precinct Cafe
Vault21 Outstanding FOH Team
- Moons
Mediaworks People’s Choice Award
- Cucina
