Spicers Retreats is pleased to announce the appointment of Will Wallace as Head Chef of The Balfour Kitchen at Spicers Balfour Hotel in New Farm. Combining his passion for locally sourced produce and modern European cuisine, Will is warmly welcomed into the Spicers family.

Originally from the Hunter Valley in NSW, Will is widely travelled and displays a distinct European influence through his cooking, learnt at classic French bistros such as Restaurant Balzac in New South Wales and several overseas positions at iconic eateries such as The Clarence in the UK.  Most recently, Will hails from Urbane, The Euro and Laneway in Brisbane.

An industry veteran at the youthful age of 29, Will started his culinary career at just 17. Throughout his career he has worked at a wide range of restaurants, from the hatted Royal Mail Hotel in Dunkeld, Victoria to Surry Hills (now CBD) icon, The Bentley Restaurant in New South Wales. A passionate and creative chef, Will draws inspiration from his experiences at a diverse range of restaurants which provides him with endless menu ideas.

Spicers Retreats Managing Director, David Assef comments; “Will's food really speaks for itself, as does his experience at leading venues such as Urbane and Restaurant Balzac. The Balfour Kitchen is known as one of Brisbane's best dining destinations, voted best casual dining venue in the 2014 QHA awards, and we welcome Will's innovation and inspiration to continue to deliver exciting dishes to our guests.”

“We are lucky in Queensland to have access to some of the most incredible produce the country has to offer and this, combined with an exceptionally talented chef, makes for menu magic” David continues. “We invite Balfour Kitchen regulars and first time visitors alike to come by to sample Will's new menu over the coming months”.

Will commences his role on the 25thof May 2015 and will be well supported by the team at Balfour Kitchen. Incumbent Head Chef, Peter Van Lunn will be missed by the Spicers team who wish him all the best in his future endeavours.

The Balfour Kitchen is a bistro-style restaurant open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Guests are invited to dine inside or enjoy the alfresco experience of a classic Queenslander wrap-around verandah and intimate courtyard shaded by Frangipani trees. A private dining room is also available for business lunches or celebration dinners for up to 18 people.