JOSH EMETT
Kiwi Chef Josh Emett is the owner of Auckland’s Onslow, Waiheke Island’s The Oyster Inn and Gilt Brasserie, which is perched at the top of historic landmark Chancery Chambers.
Brought up on a farm outside Hamilton in New Zealand, Emett discovered cooking and his love of food at a young age. After graduating Josh traveled to Melbourne and London working in highly regarded restaurants before landing a dream job with Gordon Ramsay, quickly working his way up the ranks and being part of his Michelin Star team. In 2006, he oversaw the opening in New York of Gordon Ramsay at The London NYC, and later Gordon Ramsay at The London West Hollywood. Receiving exceptional reviews in both the British and American media, in 2008 he was named ‘New York Rising Star Chef’ appeared as a guest judge on Hell’s Kitchen USA, and won the new Food Network’s show Chopped. In 2010, Emett moved to Melbourne to open Gordon Ramsay’s first two restaurants in Australia - Maze and Maze Grill - along with operating the food and Beverage service in Australia’s largest hotel, the Crown Metropol. From there came appearances on MasterChef Australia and MasterChef New Zealand. He joined MasterChef New Zealand fulltime in the second series. Today, Josh and his wife Helen Emett own and run two restaurants Onslow in Auckland City and The Oyster Inn on Waiheke Island. Their latest restaurant project, Gilt Brasserie in downtown Auckland, opened in 2023.
Onslow is the culmination of Josh Emett's culinary journey from London to New York and back to Aotearoa. A landmark Auckland address steeped in history, Onslow references the Old World but is decidedly modern; a sophisticated yet relaxed restaurant that celebrates New Zealand’s exceptional provenance. Onslow redefines the classic, where impeccable service, delicious food and timeless style are the order of the day.
The Oyster Inn on Waiheke Island is an elegant and classic coastal-inspired bistro and has just celebrated its 10 year anniversary. Josh takes an honest approach to the menu, serving delicious uncomplicated dishes that allow the ingredients to shine for themselves and leave you wanting more. Where possible ingredients are sourced locally from sustainable and organic produce.
Gilt Brasserie opened in mid-October 2023 and has already established itself as a gem on the Auckland dining scene. Combining Josh’s global culinary experience and his wife Helen’s love of Europe, Gilt combines continental flavours with a New World point of view. The food pays homage to the classics, establishes new favourites and boasts an extensive collection of old-world wines and cocktail favourites.
Follow Josh
Instagram: @joshemett
