i. Biography
Modern Australian cooking, as practiced in Sydney’s top dining rooms, depends on produce-led menu building, seasonal access, and a clear reading of place; Peter Gilmore is Executive Chef of Bennelong Restaurant and Bar in Sydney, Australia, and is associated with two of Sydney’s defining dining rooms.
The Climb
Training at Cumberland High School preceded kitchen leadership at De Beers Restaurant in Whale Beach, New South Wales, Australia, where Peter Gilmore became Head Chef from 2000. The later posts kept the work inside high-volume, high-scrutiny Sydney dining: Executive Chef of Quay restaurant, Executive Chef of Bennelong (since 2015), and a recurring guest of MasterChef Australia.
Today
The current public-facing role is Executive Chef of Bennelong Restaurant and Bar in Sydney, Australia, a July-to-present post. The same body of work also includes service as Executive Chef at Quay restaurant in Sydney and at Bennelong in Sydney. At Bennelong, the cooking was framed around Australia’s multicultural culinary influences and landscape, with respect for Australian produce and producers kept explicit rather than decorative. Gilmore put it directly: "I feel we represented Australia’s multicultural culinary influences and landscape well and honoured our wonderful produce and producers." Modern Australian cuisine is the stated specialty: inventive, original dishes built around exclusive, seasonal ingredients sourced from small producers, including heirloom vegetables. The craft point is the supply line. The dish starts with produce, seasonality, and access, then moves toward originality while keeping place legible.
In Their Words “At Quay I’ve been able to pursue my love of creativity and natures diversity and the exploration of texture and intensity of flavours in my cuisine.” “I feel we represented Australia’s multicultural culinary influences and landscape well and honoured our wonderful produce and producers.”
Recognition
Peter Gilmore has received SMH Good Food Guide — 23 consecutive 3 Chefs Hats, described by Gilmore as an Australian record. Recognition for the work includes Placed 58th in the World's 100 Best Restaurants (2015), Listed in The World's 50 Best Restaurants (2009), Three Chefs Hats for 18 consecutive years, Restaurant of the Year six times, Three stars for 18 years, and Restaurant of the Year three times.
Profile updated July 2026
FAQ
Asked of Peter
What is Peter Gilmore's current role?
Peter Gilmore is Executive Chef.
Where did Peter Gilmore train or study?
Peter Gilmore trained at Cumberland High School.
What recognition has Peter Gilmore received?
Placed 58th in the World's 100 Best Restaurants (2015).
