Let’s Go Local: Abaca’s Peaceful Adventure For The Perfect Wind Down: Goundar
If culinary art is magic, then Sivha Goundar’s spoon is a wand.
The head chef at Tanoa Waterfront Hotel in Lautoka, Mr Goundar understands how ordinary ingredients could make something extraordinary.
“Chefs need to be passionate and focused on what they do,” Mr Goundar said.
“The energy the chef brings into the kitchen determines the quality of food being delivered to customers.”
“Being a chef is an ‘art and science’ as every meal needs to be created like a masterpiece.”
“Therefore, it should look as good as it tastes – understanding the chemistry of the different ingredients and what works best to make a perfect balance and combination of flavours,” he said.
He described many sleepless nights as the stepping stones towards becoming a head chef.
“Work hard to achieve your goals.”
He said it was his childhood dream to become a chef.
“I always watched mum as she cooked at home and I also spent time with cooks at family functions.”
“My favourite role was being given a chance to stir food with the wooden spoon.”
“These moments motivated me to become a chef.”
Lautoka’s Abaca Fiji offers trekking guides and accommodation for trekkers.
What’s One Place You’d Take Every Visitor To Fiji, And Why?
Abaca Fiji.
Perfect place to unwind from normal duties – peaceful, yet adventurers.
Club Fiji Resort.
What Is Your Secret Favourite Backyard Spot, And Why?
There are actually two: Club Fiji Resort in Nadi, is one of my favourite spots as it is away from the city and has a homey ambience – comfortable and cosy.
The other spot is a secret, which I would prefer to keep it a secret.
Fins restaurant, Lautoka.
What Is Your Favourite Place In Fiji For A Pie/Coffee?
I have not found a place better than Fins Restaurant – in terms of consistency, quality and the perfect view.
To be specific, iced coffee and custard pie are my favourites.
Aerial view of Fiji’s first overwater resort, Marriott Fiji Momi Bay.
What Is The One Spot In Fiji On The Top Of Your Bucket List?
Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay’s over-water lagoon bure villas.
Feedback: shreya.kumar@fijisun.com.fj
