Our Story
Sean and Madeline have owned and operated Stronechrubie Restaurant and Accommodation since 2005.
Sean trained in Australia as a chef and has worked in many restaurants over the years, he is absolutely passionate about food and serving the best produce possible. Sean has won 15 Beef and Lamb Excellence awards, one every year since being at Stronechrubie.
When Sean isn’t cooking, gardening and doing the many other jobs to do around the place, he enjoys hunting, fishing & diving. Originally from Christchurch, Madeline has been working in hospitality since leaving school and loves interacting with customers. She manages both the a la carte restaurant and also the Bistro as well as looking after the functions. Madeline and Sean have 3 school age daughters who keep them busy in their “spare” time.You will also come across ‘Rata’ on your visit to Stronechrubie. Our gorgeous Leonburger dog is very well known to guests. Usually she will be on the couch in reception to greet customers as they arrive, and then will spend her day wandering around visiting.
Our Master Chef Sean started his apprentice chef training in Canberra, Australia 25 years ago. Since then he has worked in a few restaurants, Jean Pierre Carousel, French kitchen Civic, Courthouse Hotel, Parliament House Canberra. Sean has been interested in food since he was a kid, always wanting to help his mum (also a chef) in her kitchen. Sean’s style is classic French with a New Zealand touch. At Stronechrubie Restaurant all produce is locally sourced from within a 100km radius of Mt Somers. Recently Sean and Madeline traveled to China to visit relatives and while there completed a traditional noodle and dumpling course. The dumplings are on the menu and are a good seller!
Thanks Stronechrubie, for a great night and morning last week. The Dinner, Bed and Breakfast deal is amazing and the cabin was cosy and comfortable. Dinner was YUM YUM YUM, of course.
We will tell our friends about you. A gem nestled in the foothills !!!!!
Kate Wilwert