Chef and Founder

They say - “to fall in love with cooking you must first fall in love with eating”

My culinary journey began in the North-East of England, a region where food is intrinsically linked to family and community. Inspired by my father and brother, both accomplished chefs, I pursued formal training at the Newcastle School of Culinary Arts, laying the foundation for a career that has taken me from local bistros to Michelin-starred kitchens.

Early experiences in diverse culinary environments, including the Michelin-starred Drunken Duck and Jesmond Dene House, honed my skills and instilled a deep appreciation for quality and craftsmanship. At 21, I became Sous Chef at The Fisherman's Lodge, contributing to the restaurant's achievement of a 4 Rosette standard.

Seeking to expand my horizons, I ventured to London, where I worked at Gordon Ramsay's Maze and Simon Rogan's L'enclume. These experiences provided invaluable insights into the intricacies of high-pressure kitchens and the art of innovative cuisine.

My journey continued to Sydney, where I served as Sous Chef at Sean's Kitchen within Star Casino, navigating the challenges of high-volume service. A transformative internship at The French Laundry in Napa Valley further refined my culinary philosophy, emphasising precision and dedication.

Returning to Sydney, I joined the opening team of Momofuku Seiobo, followed by a collaboration with Studio Neon, crafting bespoke dining experiences for discerning clients. My expertise extended to food consultancy at Food Associates, where I contributed to the development of prominent food brands.

As Co-founder and Culinary Director of Food Equity Group, I developed and managed multiple food brands, navigating the complexities of product development, manufacturing, and national distribution. However, this experience ignited a desire to return to a more direct connection with food and community.

In September 2023, I made the decision to focus on building The Burrow Café at Fitzroy Falls into a welcoming community hub, and to complete a full refurbishment of Graze Exclusive Venue. My goal is to create exceptional culinary experiences that foster connection and celebrate the art of good food. I believe in the power of shared meals and the importance of creating spaces where people can gather and connect.

Graze Exclusive Venue

Located in the heart of Fitzroy Falls National Park, Graze Community Center is a newly refurbished venue, now available for weddings and special events. This versatile space blends natural beauty with a strong community spirit, creating the perfect backdrop for any gathering. Guests love the tranquil setting, with floor-to-ceiling glass walls showcasing the stunning landscape and the iconic waterfall nearby. This 200 sqm space, Graze creative headquarters, features polished concrete floors and timber ceilings, offering a sophisticated canvas. We offer everything you need for a seamless event, including easy access for prams and wheelchairs, a parents' room, high-speed internet, a projector and PA system. Seating is available for 120 guests for formal dining or 140 for cocktail-style events.

Graze's exclusive venue is ideal for:

  • Wedding Receptions: The perfect canvas for wedding receptions, creating a truly unique and memorable experience.

  • Corporate Functions: Host inspiring and productive professional events.

  • Special Occasions: Celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, and other milestones in style.

  • Community Events: A sought-after hub for community gatherings and programs.

  • Cultural Programs: Showcase regional heritage and arts.

  • Creative Workshops: Foster artistic expression and learning.

Did you know that we’re currently taking bookings for cultural, creative and wellness workshops in our space? You could enjoy a free month of venue hire when you sign up! Conditions Apply. Get in touch today! You could be hosting your workshop as early as next week!

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The Burrow Cafe

In the heart of Fitzroy Falls national park you will find The Burrow Cafe. The Burrow has become a cherished part of the community since opening last September. It's a place where the best of The Southern Highlands produce is celebrated.

Guests enjoy a perfectly brewed Gabriel Coffee, paired with a delicious selection of handmade sweets and pastries. Locals start their day with a quick caffeine boost, while travellers find it the ideal stop on their weekend escapes.

Open Thursday through Sunday, from 8 am to 4 pm, The Burrow provides a warm and inviting space to relax and recharge. The menu features seasonal delights, showcasing the region's top-quality ingredients.

The Burrow Cafe is known as a popular destination for:

  • Locals: A quality spot to meet friends and fuel their day.

  • Travelers: A delightful and refreshing break on their journey.

  • Airbnb Hosts: Regularly recommend it to their guests for an authentic Southern Highlands experience.

  • Motorists & Car Enthusiasts: A go-to stop for an early morning Sunday cruise.

More than just a cafe, The Burrow is a community gathering place. Visitors experience the warmth and flavours of Fitzroy Falls. You can make a group booking by texting 0467705843 your name, the date and time of the booking and the number of people. i.e. Jane, book club 3/3/25 12 pax.

Don’t forget, you can also order ahead of time to make the morning run quicker and easier.

 

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You can find us here:

The Pantry

Showcasing the best ingredients from the Southern Highlands we have The Pantry! tucked away between Fitzroy visitor Center and The Burrow Cafe. Here, you’ll find everything from fresh produce and gourmet cheeses to artisanal condiments and tasty local treats. We’re all about supporting our local farmers, so each product really showcases the amazing flavours of the region.

Here’s a sneak peek at what you can find:

  • Fresh, seasonal veggies and fruits straight from local farms

  • Award-winning cheeses that are sure to impress

  • Delicious jams, chutneys, oils, and sauces made with love from local ingredients

  • One-of-a-kind local goodies

At The Pantry, you can take a little slice of the Southern Highlands home with you! And guess what? We’ve got exciting plans to add our very own homemade jams, chutneys, and easy pre-packaged meals to the mix, making it super convenient to whip up some memorable meals while supporting our community whether you’ve got last minute guests or your staycations are calling for something a little more creative.

A trip to The Pantry is not just about great food; it’s also a taste of the region and a peek into its bright culinary future!

Did you know you can even order your very own Graze Box and your favourite local produce online?

Our passion ignites at the intersection of Showcasing the Southern Highlands, Farm to Table and Open Fire cooking.

Claim Your Bespoke Menu

At Graze, menus are crafted as individual works of art, tailored to your tastes and event. We showcase the finest local ingredients, reflecting the unique character of the Southern Highlands. Our team's expertise ensures an exquisite and innovative dining experience. Contact us to design your bespoke menu.

What Clients Say About Us

  • We had Richard & his team cater for a 60th birthday party and it was absolutely brilliant!! Everyone raved about the food and the service was excellent! They came, setup, fed us and then tidied up - there was nothing for us to worry about except getting ourselves ready! We will certainly be using Richard again for our next event!!

  • Rich put on a magnificent spread after my sister in laws funeral. Although it was a sad day for the family, the care and attention to detail of the food that was presented was second to none and helped bring a little joy to a sad occasion.
    Many of the quests commented on the fine quality of the entire menu and presentation.
    Thanks Rich. A great job.
    Steve W

  • If you're searching for a catering service that surpasses all expectations, look no further than Richard Robinson at Graze! My recent birthday celebration was elevated to extraordinary heights thanks to Richard's exceptional culinary prowess and unparalleled professionalism.

    From the moment I reached out to Richard, the experience was seamless. His prompt responsiveness and eagerness to tailor the menu to my preferences instantly put me at ease. Not only was he easy to connect with, but his organisation and attention to detail ensured that every aspect of my event was flawlessly executed.

    Now, let's talk about the food - absolute perfection! Richard's culinary creations are nothing short of extraordinary. Each dish was crafted with precision, bursting with flavor, and beautifully presented. From delectable appetizers to mouthwatering mains, every bite was a culinary journey in itself. My guests couldn't stop raving about the exquisite flavors and impeccable quality of the cuisine.

    What truly sets Richard apart is his unwavering commitment to excellence. He didn't just meet my expectations; he exceeded them in every way possible. His passion for his craft shines through in every dish, and it's evident that he takes immense pride in delivering an unforgettable dining experience.

    In summary, if you're seeking a catering service that combines exceptional quality food with unparalleled professionalism, Richard Robinson at Graze by 16 Stables is the undisputed choice. Thank you, Richard, for making my birthday celebration an absolute delight. I look forward to the next opportunity to indulge in your culinary creations!

  • What a fantastic experience. The food and service were outstanding. Richard and his team did an amazing job and we are already trying to create occasions where we can use them again.

  • My wife and I recently attended one of Grazes pop up feasts at Smockin in Berrima. We were both very impressed with the delicious dishes put up by the talented chef, Rich.
    I will be keeping an eye out for future events that's for sure!

  • We were part of the Bistecca event and we can’t praise the team enough. Food was great and atmosphere amazing. Will be back with more of our events and can’t wait to taste the food again.