Say G'Day to The APPIN HOTEL BISTRO CHEF
Meet Chris, the passionate head chef of Appin Hotel Bistro! With years of experience in the hospitality industry, Chris has built a reputation for serving up delicious pub classics with a modern twist, all while creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Learn about Chris' journey in the hospitality industry, what makes the business successful, and his dedication to making a difference - whether it’s through supporting local suppliers or giving back to Appin and the community.
Let's start with a little bit about you
I'm the chef of the Appin Hotel Bistro. I recently turned 47, and for 29 of those years, I’ve been working as a chef. I’ve been married for almost three years and I am a proud father. My journey in hospitality has been shaped by both personal and professional experiences, and I’m incredibly passionate about what I do.
Giving back is something I deeply believe in. Growing up in a tough part of Claymore, I understand the challenges of hard living. That’s why supporting local sports clubs like Appin Junior Rugby, Appin Soccer Club, and The Hub in Ambarvale brings me so much joy. More than anything, I will always make sure someone in need gets a meal - nothing saddens me more than knowing someone is struggling to eat.
I’m also passionate about supporting local music, especially The 046. They’ve had a huge impact on me and the Appin Hotel, bringing great energy to the venue. Their performances at the Hotel and social media mentions of our bistro have helped attract new customers, creating a fantastic buzz in the community.
Tell us about your journey into the hospitality industry
From a young age, I knew I wanted to succeed in hospitality and strive to be even half the person my mum was. My first job was an apprenticeship as a chef in a waterfront restaurant in the city, and in 2001, I was one of the founding chef's at Rashay’s Campbelltown. I worked with Rashay’s for 15 years, watching the business grow across Sydney. Around six years ago, I joined the team at Appin Hotel, and for the past year, I’ve been proudly running the Bistro independently, bringing my passion for great food and hospitality to the local community.
What is your business story?
Appin Hotel Bistro is not just another restaurant, it’s a place where customers come first. Our focus is on providing great value and quality, which is why we were voted Best Snitty in Macarthur in 2023 by C91.3. Some of our proudest achievements include consistently receiving great online reviews, having a strong base of returning customers (some travelling over an hour each week!), and being named a finalist in the Wollondilly 2024 Business Awards.
Like many businesses, the COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges. During this time, food trucks from outside the area began offering a different dining experience in Appin. To stay competitive and retain our customers, we pivoted our menu offerings and introduced fun themed nights, like Mexican evenings, to keep things exciting for our patrons. In the future, we hope to reintroduce themed nights to bring even more excitement and variety to our menu.
What makes your business successful?
My happiest moments are when I’m feeding customers, and I truly believe that you don’t work six days and six nights a week without passion. The bistro seats 115 people, plus outdoor and verandah areas, I love the atmosphere of a full bistro with the staff humming at the fastest pace possible to feed our fantastic customers. When it is busy like this I am reminded our success is only possible because of my hardworking team and loyal customers.
What sets us apart is our dedication to our patrons. Loyalty is the key to life, our customer return because we focus on what they like and we listen to them. Customer service is the most important element of our business, and I encourage all my staff to check in with guests during their meals to ensure the best dining experience possible. We believe in teamwork, generous portion sizes, and above all, delivering a fantastic dining experience. The love and loyalty from our customers keeps us motivated every day.
What is the most popular dish?
My favourite dish to make is our Crying Tiger; it's a Thai dish with the Appin Hotel Bistro touch. Originally served as an entrée, its growing popularity led us to offer it as a main meal as well. Our most popular dish, however, is the Chicken Schnitzel and its variety of Parmigiana toppings; we go through almost 200kg of chicken each week!
Who has been a great influence for you or the business? And why?
My biggest influences have been my team and my family. My team shares my passion for customer service, and we live by the motto: “Bring me solutions, not problems.”
My mum was also a huge inspiration. She worked in hospitality and taught me the value of hard work. Losing her and my sister 11 years ago was an incredibly difficult time, but I honour her memory every day. In fact, I named my youngest daughter Maxie after my mum.
Why did you choose Wollondilly?
Six years ago I was offered a job in Appin and the town quickly grew on me - just as I grew on the town. There’s no other place I’d rather work. The community is incredible, and I am proud to be a part of it. Naturally, my favourite Dilly town is Appin, thanks to its amazing people.
What are your proudest achievements?
Above all, my family - my wife and my beautiful daughters are my greatest achievement. Watching our bistro grow, seeing our customer base expand, and reading positive reviews on social media are also incredible milestones.
Other than your own business, which Dilly business is your favourite?
Wollondilly has some great spots, but if you’re looking for a must-do, I’d say come and enjoy lunch or dinner at the Appin Hotel Bistro!
When it comes to takeaway, I love grabbing breakfast from Appin Bakery. For top-quality meat, I always choose Meagan’s Country Cuts butcher in Appin. Supporting local businesses is something I truly believe in.
What is something people wouldn’t know about you?
I am incredibly passionate about Appin Hotel Bistro - I even have a tattoo to remind me of my dedication (see photo below)!
Do you have any new plans for your business?
The owner of the Appin Hotel has exciting renovation plans, including an expanded undercover outdoor dining area and a full refurbishment. These changes will enhance the dining experience, and we can’t wait to see them come to life!
