Experience Culinary Excellence
Meet Chef Thomas Barta
Discover the experience behind Chef Thomas Barta, a Queenstown-based private chef with more than 20 years of experience in Michelin-starred, hatted and luxury hospitality establishments.
Thomas creates bespoke private dining experiences shaped by exceptional seasonal produce, refined technique and a genuine passion for bringing people together through food.
A personal journey shaped by world-class kitchens and a passion for refined, thoughtful dining.
A Career Shaped by World-Class Kitchens
Welcome to Queenstown Private Chef, where global culinary experience meets the beauty of Queenstown.
My culinary journey spans more than 20 years across Michelin-starred, hatted and luxury hospitality establishments in the United Kingdom and New Zealand.
From working at Gordon Ramsay at Claridge’s to leading award-winning kitchens and luxury hotel openings, each chapter has shaped my approach to food: refined technique, exceptional seasonal produce and warm, thoughtful hospitality.
Today, I bring that experience to bespoke private dining in Queenstown, creating personalised menus and memorable occasions in villas, private homes and beautiful venues throughout the region.
Culinary Journey
A selection of career milestones that shaped my approach to refined, guest-focused dining.
2023 – Present
Private Chef & Consultant
Queenstownprivatechef, New Zealand
Founder, Private Chef & Culinary Experience Creator
Queenstown Private Chef | New Zealand
Creating bespoke private dining experiences and refined catering for intimate dinners, milestone birthdays, weddings, corporate retreats, hands-on cooking classes and luxury multi-day stays.
Every experience is designed around the occasion and the people at the table – from personalised menus and exceptional seasonal produce to on-site cooking, polished service, thoughtful presentation and complete kitchen clean-down.
Trusted by private clients, event planners and luxury accommodation partners to create warm, seamless and memorable dining experiences throughout Queenstown and the surrounding region.
2023
Group Executive chef
Republic Hospitality Group | Queenstown, New Zealand
Led the culinary development and opening of SODA, a 200-seat Mediterranean restaurant in the heart of Queenstown. The role encompassed menu direction, kitchen systems, team development and opening operations, creating a vibrant dining concept designed for one of New Zealand’s busiest hospitality destinations.
2017 – 2022
Executive chef
Botswana Butchery & White and Wongs Queenstown
From 2017 to 2022, I served as Multi-Venue Executive Chef, overseeing the culinary direction and day-to-day operations of Botswana Butchery and White + Wong’s in Queenstown. At Botswana Butchery, a high-volume, premium steak restaurant, the kitchen was awarded 1 Hat in the Cuisine Good Food Guide in 2018 during my tenure. I also played a key role in the opening and development of White + Wong’s, contributing to its strong reputation and multiple national accolades, including recognition as one of New Zealand’s leading restaurants.
2012-2017
Head Chef
Harbourside Ocean bar and Grill
Between 2012 and 2017, I led the kitchen at Harbourside Ocean Bar and Grill, managing a team of 12 chefs and overseeing a high-volume, seafood-focused operation. During this period, the restaurant was awarded 1 Hat in 2016 and received Best Restaurant recognition. I was also the winner of the Best Ora King Salmon Dish in New Zealand during this time, reflecting a strong focus on quality, technique, and refined execution.
Milestones & Highlights
A few defining moments that shaped my approach to refined, guest-focused dining.
2004
Culinary School Graduation
Our chef graduated with honors from the prestigious City and Guild London , setting the foundation for a remarkable culinary journey.
2009
Michelin-Star Experience
Refined technique and discipline in a Michelin-starred kitchen at Gordon Ramsay at Claridge’s, London.
2010
International Experience
Broadened culinary approach through hands-on experience across leading kitchens in Europe and New Zealand.
2015
Award Recognition
Recognised for excellence after winning Best Salmon Dish in New Zealand at the Flavours of the Sea competition.
2017
Queenstown Arrival
Relocated to Queenstown, leading kitchen operations at Botswana Butchery and White + Wong’s.
2018
White + Wong’s Opening
Led the opening of the Asian-fusion restaurant White + Wong’s in Queenstown, later recognised among New Zealand’s top restaurants.
Private dinners, luxury stays, intimate weddings, and select events across Queenstown.
Culinary Excellence
Artisanal Ingredients
Our chef meticulously selects the finest local and seasonal ingredients to craft dishes that delight the senses.
Innovative Techniques
Combining traditional methods with modern culinary techniques, our chef creates unique and memorable dining experiences.
Personalized Menus
Every menu is tailored to the client’s preferences, ensuring a bespoke dining experience that exceeds expectations.
What Our Clients Say
“The dining experience was nothing short of spectacular. Every dish was a masterpiece, reflecting Thomas’s passion and skill.”- Sarah L.
“An unforgettable evening. Attention to detail and creativity made our event truly special.” – James T.
Book Your Exclusive Culinary Experience
Indulge in a bespoke dining experience tailored to your tastes, whether for a private dinner, intimate wedding, or select event in Queenstown.
Thoughtfully designed around you, from private dinners to intimate weddings and select events in Queenstown.
Private dinners, luxury stays, intimate weddings, and select events in Queenstown.
