There’s a new captain of the ship at Shannon Bennett’s Vue de Monde; the Melbourne fine dining favourite has just welcomed a new executive chef in the form of Hugh Allen.

Allen is no stranger to the Vue de Monde team, returning after a three-year stint at the two-Michelin-star restaurant Noma. His experience under René Redzepi at the much revered Copenhagen eatery will no doubt make its way into his new role, with Allen already promising a menu that pays homage to classical fine dining in a modern context. “Vue de monde has always felt like home,” he says. “I’m excited to draw inspiration from my recent travels and apply it to this iconic restaurant.”

Helping Allen to settle in to his new gig will be Justin James in his continued role as group executive chef, working across Vue Group’s burgeoning venues which include Iki-Jime and Benny Burger. Allen will also be joined by Vue de Monde head chef Chris Marshall, restaurant manager Christoph Schrottenbaum and master sommelier Dorian Guillon.

For Vue Group founder and creative director Shannon Bennett, Allen’s arrival is an opportunity for the restaurant to evolve on the current dining experience.“Following in the group’s philosophy of promoting rising stars, Hugh is the perfect candidate with his invaluable experience starting with an apprenticeship at Rockpool Group before furthering his skills at Vue de monde and then Noma,” he says.

“Hugh is one of Australia’s most esteemed contemporary chefs and we’re keen to tap into his culinary flair and knowledge of the craft following his experience cooking in some of the world’s best restaurants.”

Vue de Monde
Rialto Towers, 525 Collins Street, Melbourne
http://www.vuedemonde.com.au