Russell Armstrong
The Executive Chef
Gastronomic legend, Russell Armstrong loves to cook. He also loves a challenge. It’s no wonder he travelled over 11 000km’s from Brisbane, Australia to create dishes for Johannesburg’s discerning epicureans.
With a list of compliments and awards as long as a spatula; Russell Armstrong is no stranger to acclaim, or pressure. Arriving in Johannesburg in 2015, Russell bought into the vision of Exclusive Books CEO, Benjamin Trisk, for a place where lovers of books and food can connect, and share.
At the time, Social Kitchen and Bar was nothing more than a concrete parking lot. Now, the eatery is serving up some of the best sharing plates in Johannesburg and has been nominated for an Eat Out Boschendal Style Award.
Inspired by his training in the world’s best kitchens, Russell believes that when beautiful flavours are combined with perfect technique, they deliver the best meals. His inspiration comes from his favourite mealtime-memories – sharing plates and sharing stories across the table with his family.
Many years ago, and over 11 000km’s away, the start of Russell’s culinary career began the moment he chose to become a chef rather than an architect. His 36-year journey to Johannesburg saw him complete his apprenticeship in Australia before being given the opportunity to work under the guidance of M. Michel Bourdin at the renowned Connaught Hotel in London’s Mayfair. During this intensive learning experience, Russell also sought guidance from Albert Roux at his three-star restaurant, Le Gavroché.
Before returning to Australia in 1984, Russell was invited to spend time at La Frere Troisgros, a Michelin Guide three-starred restaurant in Roanne, France with head chef and friend, Michel Troisgrois.
Back home in Brisbane, Russell not only opened several award-winning restaurants, but also two boutique hotels, one in Noosa and the other in Derby, Western Australia. He also opened the first Versace Hotel in the world, on Queensland’s Gold Coast.
Russell’s first restaurant in Brisbane, Tables of Toowong, received acclaim from both Australian and international food critics. In fact, it was twice-voted Best Australian Restaurant State Finalist by the Remi/Gourmet Traveller Magazine and in 1994, 1995 and 1997 was the American Express State Finalist for Best BYO Restaurant. His second restaurant, Armstrong’s, received several awards before he opened Barolo in 2008.
He’s been invited to cook and showcase his food as far afield as Singapore, Vietnam, the Philippines and Sri Lanka. And now, he’s in South Africa. Doing what he does best – sharing his passion for creating simple and delicious food for people who love to share. Despite swapping his fountain pens and a drawing board for the steam, fire and sizzle of a kitchen; Russell believes he still holds the same vision as an architect – to create.
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