The Panorama Room

Since first opening its doors in 1969,The Panorama Room has gained a reputation as being one of the best restaurants in New Zealand.This reputation is reflected in the numerous awards the restaurant has received over the years.

A simple philosophy of using just the freshest, local ingredients, in particular from New Zealand's South Island, is still the secret to our success today.  Our menu has a strong international influence. It reflects both our clientele's taste and the fact that most of the chefs have traveled and worked widely throughout the world.

The Panorama Room is open daily for dinner from 6.00pm to 10.00pm (seasonal hours may apply). Due to high demand, reservations are essential.

Bon Appétit!

Ken O'Connell 
Executive Chef

About Ken

Originally from Cork (Ireland), Ken moved to New Zealand with his family in January 2007, taking up the role of Executive Chef at Vidal's Winery Restaurant, in the Hawkes Bay . In 2008, he was awarded the prestigious title of 'New Zealand Chef of the Year' and in 2009 he received a scholarship grant from the New Zealand Restaurant Association to train and work alongside top executive chef Peter Gilmore at Australia's Restaurant of the Year, Quay in Sydney.

For Ken, food has been a life-long passion. He completed his training at Cork Regional Technical College and has gone on to work and develop his skills as a chef over 24 years, pouring heart and soul into perfecting his craft. Ken has worked and trained in many well-known establishments including Jacques Restaurant in Cork, Man Fridays of Kinsale and the Radisson SAS Hotel Ditchly.