Gerard’s Bistro has long been one of the stars of Brisbane’s dining scene. But the Middle Eastern venture would be little of what it is today without the efforts of head chef Ben Williamson, who today announced his departure from the James Street haunt.

Perth-born Williamson has been with the Moubarak-owned eatery since its launch six years ago, helping it achieve ongoing success and multiple accolades within this time. He brought with him to Gerard’s ample experience in both fine dining and Middle Eastern cuisine, having worked for Gulf Air in Bahrain before fellow Brisbane fine diners Cha Cha Char, 1889 Enoteca and Urbane.

“Much of the Gerard’s story is owed to the talented and sometimes brilliant chefs, managers and floor staff that make up its parts that have come, gone and still remain,” Williamson told delicious. “I’m eternally grateful for them to enable the vision for the Bistro be realised and conveyed to our diners. Not to mention the unwavering support of the Moubarak family who had the courage to take a punt on me in the first place and who supported me through thick and thin. These past six years have been some of my most memorable so it is bittersweet for me to farewell the Gerard’s family and embark on a new chapter in my career.”

The Moubarak family have wished Williamson well on his next chapter, but have said they will be sad to see him go.

“Ben has given so much creatively to Gerard’s. His passion for the venue and the industry has inspired all of us. I not only count him as a friend, but as part of our family and I wish him all the best in the future,” Johnny Moubarak commented on Instagram.