Sebastian Hindrichs, of French Café fame, has taken the helm as Executive Chef at Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour's elegant Lava Dining. Sebastian will bring his own interpretation of European classics with a New Zealand twist to the hotel's restaurant.

Following seven years heading up the kitchen at French Café, one of the most highly regarded restaurants in New Zealand, Sebastian is excited to have some creative freedom to delight diners with unique flavour combinations.

Born in Cologne, Germany, Sebastian's passion for cooking began at a young age. After finishing a three year apprenticeship in Cologne, he worked at the Michelin-starred restaurant Lärchenhof before embarking on his international culinary career to Switzerland.

“When I was a teenager I discovered how much I enjoyed cooking for friends and family and how fascinating food can be. To me, cooking is so much more than a job, it's a way of life. Nothing makes me happier than to sit around a table with people you care about and share a delicious meal together,” Sebastian said.

“I'm thrilled to have recently launched the winter menu at Lava Dining to bring touches of my home in Germany in the form of my favourite dishes, such as the black forest gateau.”

Area General Manager of Sofitel New Zealand, Wouter de Graaf, says Sebastian's recent experience at the French Café will be an asset to Lava Dining.

“Sofitel's ethos combines the best of local ingredients with French gastronomy, design and culture, and we believe that Sebastian's fine-dining experience is perfectly suited to Lava Dining and the Sofitel brand,” said Wouter.

“Having earned one Michelin star through his culinary skills and creative launch of restaurant in Hamburg Kuechenwerkstatt, we look forward to seeing what Sebastian has planned for Lava Dining.”

Driven by the cooler season and key seasonal and sustainable produce, a highlight to try on Lava Dining's new menu is the seared scallops with anise, orange and liquorice.

Lava Dining is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and provides room service for Sofitel guests.