Chef/owner Jude Kereama is a New Zealander who won awards for his restaurants in both London and Auckland before moving down to Cornwall to open Kota restaurant.
Jude and his wife Jane – who heads up the front of house – strive to give their customers an experience to remember with their award-winning food, extensive wine list and relaxed yet attentive service. Little wonder that he was chosen to represent the South West in Great British Menu.
At Kota restaurant with rooms, Jude works his culinary magic on the best local produce using his signature Asian twist.
Chef Jude is half Maori, half Chinese Malay, and grew up in New Zealand, the youngest of five children. His cooking style reflects the mix of Chinese-Malay and Western food that his mother created, along with his appreciation of Cornish produce.
He was introduced to working in a kitchen while at university. He was so drawn to the drama, fun and food that he chose to leave university to train as a chef. Jude moved to the UK in 1996 having trained under New Zealand celebrity chef Simon Gault. He spent many years working in top London restaurants before moving to Cornwall.
Kota – which means ‘shellfish’ in Maori – is set in a 300-year-old building, right on the harbour front of the historic village of Porthleven.
Kota has received the Award for Creativity and Innovation by the Trencherman’s Guide 2017. Kota is also proud to be recognised by the Good Food Guide, the Michelin Guide (with a Bib Gourmand Award), Harden’s Restaurant Guide, Square Meal and the AA (with two Rosettes). Jude also runs the sister restaurant Kota Kai.
Follow Jude at:
Website : Kota Restaurant
