About Us – Principle of Hospitality

Meet the Founders

Who We Are

Industry veterans and long-time friends Shaun de Vries and Sash Fernando saw a gap in Australia’s hospitality industry. With a growing need to keep abreast of the latest trends and innovations, as well as the changing needs of consumers, it was clear our hospitality heroes could benefit from a stronger support network.

Principle of Hospitality (POH) is a unique platform where hospitality professionals can connect through storytelling and a love of good food.

POH is here to provide a fresh and relevant voice for the hospitality industry and foster a sense of community.

What We Offer

Industry learnings to help you build commercial acumen and learn about business plans, staffing, and marketing in your hospitality field of choice.

Industry Events

Sponsorship opportunities

Exposure for your business via our podcast, journal, and social media

Branded, marketing, and video content

Drive passion within the hospitality industry

Let's Collaborate

Check out

Meet your team:

Shaun de Vries

Co-Founder & Host

Sash Fernando

Co-Founder & Creative Director

The Principle Team

Leon Kennedy

Host

Kay-Lene Tan

Host

Ash Ellis

Host

Don’t miss a thing!

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter and keep up to date with our latest episodes, blog posts, and special events.

Follow us on Instagram

@nelrestaurant a fine-dining restaurant in Sydney

@nelrestaurant a fine-dining restaurant in Sydney is upcoming 2024 edition of the “Once Upon a Time” degustation. This unique dining event, scheduled from April 16 to August 10, offers an 11-course menu inspired by various Disney films, such as ‘Frozen’, ‘The Jungle Book’, ‘101 Dalmatians’, and others. Each dish is creatively designed to evoke elements of the movies, both in presentation and flavour, incorporating both savoury and sweet courses. This year marks the fifth chapter of these Disney-themed culinary experiences at NEL, under the direction of Executive Chef @chefnellyrobinson. The degustation is priced at $185 per person, with an additional option for matched beverages (extra $165) . Reservations are highly recommended due to the high demand.
Read more anda images credit: @nelrestaurant
#restaurant #chef #menu #disney #sydney #hospitality

Adetokunboh Adeniyi (@ade.tokunboh ), affectionate

Adetokunboh Adeniyi (@ade.tokunboh ), affectionately known as Ade, has significantly impacted the Australian culinary scene by introducing Nigerian cuisine through his venture, @alittlelagos . His journey began with food stalls across Sydney and Melbourne, eventually evolving into a food truck, and leading to the establishment of a pioneering Nigerian bistro and bar in Newtown, Sydney. This establishment has become a cornerstone for celebrating West African culture in Australia, earning Ade recognition as one of Hospitality’s 50 game changers in 2021 and the Young Entrepreneur of the Year 2020.
Building on his success in Sydney, Ade expanded his culinary footprint with the opening of a new Little Lagos venue in Brisbane. This move further solidifies his role in bringing the vibrant flavours and rich culture of Nigeria to a broader Australian audience, making a lasting contribution to the nation’s diverse culinary landscape. Through Little Lagos, Ade continues to share his passion for Nigerian cuisine, enhancing Australia’s gastronomic diversity with authentic West African music, food, fashion, art, and culture.
Read more and images credit: alittlelagos.com
#chef #restaurant #culinary #nigeria #cuisine #leaderhisp #hospitality

@hopperjoint located in Prahran, Melbourne, has re

@hopperjoint located in Prahran, Melbourne, has recently opened its doors as a vibrant showcase of Sri Lankan cuisine. This 80-seat diner champions the traditional Sri Lankan hopper, offering patrons a front-row seat to the culinary artistry in its open kitchen. Inspired by tropical modernism, the venue is adorned with custom-made decor and artworks that narrate the rich tapestry of Sri Lankan culture. The menu pays tribute to cherished family recipes, melding traditional flavours with contemporary innovations. Hopper Joint extends beyond mere dining, promoting communal eating practices and engaging diners with playful design touches like antique brass bells for interactive fun. This establishment is not just a restaurant; it’s a cultural enclave that knits the vibrant essence of Sri Lanka into the fabric of Melbourne’s culinary scene, inviting guests to explore and create shared memories.
Images credit: @hopperjoint
#food #srilankan #cuisine #prahran #melbourne #hospitality

The “Aperol High Tea at TWR,” happening from 5

The “Aperol High Tea at TWR,” happening from 5 April to 30 June, every Friday to Sunday starting at 11 AM, invites patrons to The Waiting Room at @crownmelbourne for an elevated high tea experience. This special event features a four-tiered selection of desserts and savoury items, all infused with the lively and distinct flavours of Aperol. Guests can look forward to a variety of treats, including lemon meringue macarons and Aperol-infused panna cotta, each crafted to showcase the essence of Aperol. The chefs have artfully integrated Aperol’s citrus notes into every tier, offering a unique culinary journey that balances the sweet, the savoury, and the bitter. This indulgent experience is further enhanced by the elegant presentation of pastries, savoury bites, and freshly baked scones. It’s a perfect blend of sophistication and enjoyment, promising an unforgettable outing for those who appreciate the finer things in life.
Read more and images credit: crownmelbourne.com.au/bars/the-waiting-room/offers/aperol-high-tea
#casino #aperol #tea #chef #food #melbourne #hospitality

@the_christopher_the based baker in the hospitalit

@the_christopher_the based baker in the hospitality industry, has made a significant mark with his innovative approach and commitment to excellence. Beginning his culinary journey while studying psychology, he soon shifted his focus entirely to cooking, training at top restaurants before opening Black Star Pastry in Newtown in 2008. Famous for its Strawberry Watermelon Cake, the patisserie became a global sensation known as “the most Instagrammed Cake in the World.”
Thé’s culinary style, blending artisan techniques with creativity, set a new standard in the industry. After selling Black Star Pastry, he turned his attention to the future of food, focusing on sustainability and innovation in hospitality. Thé is celebrated for his vision in food culture and his dedication to elevating customer experiences, firmly positioning him as a forward-thinking leader in Australian hospitality.
Read more and images credit: christopherthe.com.au
/#cake #bake #chef #pastry #culinary #sydney #leadership #hospitality

@misterbiancokew located in Melbourne, led by Chef

@misterbiancokew located in Melbourne, led by Chef Joseph Vargetto, is renowned for its blend of modern European and traditional Italian cuisine, reflecting the seasonal trends of Melbourne’s food scene. Next door, the new Bianchetto cocktail and wine bar offers a sophisticated ambiance with classic Italian film projections and an innovative drinks menu by award-winning bartender Orlando Marzo. Above Mister Bianco, La Sala provides a versatile event space with stunning views of Kew Junction, blending art deco with modern designs and featuring multimedia screens for events. Together, Mister Bianco, Bianchetto, and La Sala offer a complete dining and social experience in Kew, making it a notable destination for food and wine enthusiasts. Bianchetto operates Tuesday–Saturday from 6pm at 26–28 Cotham Road.
Images credit: @misterbiancokew
#restaurant #chef #italian #cocktail #drinks #menu #kew #melbourne #hospitality

@pinotpalooza, a celebrated pinot noir wine-tastin

@pinotpalooza, a celebrated pinot noir wine-tasting festival, has announced its 2024 dates for Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne. This event, originating from Melbourne and famous for drawing an estimated 65,000 global attendees pre-pandemic, will offer tastings of over 50 pinot noir labels from Australia, New Zealand, and internationally. Alongside wine sampling, attendees can enjoy pop-up bars and food stalls. Ticket sales begin in early July, with venues to be announced. In 2024, the festival will occur on the east coast, with collaborative events in Perth and Adelaide with the Mould cheese festival.
Read more and images credit: https://pinotpalooza.com.au/pages/festival
#festival #wine #pinot #event #food #bar #hospitality

@karkallabyronbay is the creation of @msmindywoods

@karkallabyronbay is the creation of @msmindywoods , a proud Bundjalung woman, celebrating her Indigenous heritage through a unique culinary experience. This passion project brings together locally sourced produce and native ingredients, offering a menu that’s both a tribute to and a celebration of Australia’s Indigenous culture. Mindy’s dream was to build a space where people could connect with Aboriginal culture through food, aiming to increase Indigenous representation in hospitality and agriculture. Karkalla honors the traditional custodians of the land and the elders past, present, and emerging, embodying a commitment to cultural education and appreciation. It’s not just a place to eat; it’s a venue where guests can immerse themselves in the stories and art of the world’s oldest living civilization, all while enjoying innovative dishes in the heart of Byron Bay.
Read more and images credit: @msmindywoods
#culinary #indigenous #chef #womam #leadership #hospitality

@pickles_milkbar gives the classic Aussie milk bar

@pickles_milkbar gives the classic Aussie milk bar a fresh, vegan spin, boasting a chic, retro vibe. This spot shines with its plant-based menu, featuring vegan versions of beloved snacks like dim sims, hot chips, and breakfast pies, along with a selection of house-made sweets like lemon slice and choc-chip cookies. Their standout offerings include a variety of vegan sandwiches, such as an inventive eggplant schnitzel and a flavour-packed gyros filled with za’atar zucchini, all served on quality bread from local bakeries.
The drink menu takes you back with childhood favourites like thick milkshakes and spiders, crafted from any soda available. Pickles hasn’t forgotten about our four-legged mates, offering “puppacinos” and homemade dog treats.
Images credit: @pickles_milkbar
#cafe #plantbased #vegan #coffee #melbourne #hospitality

The 31st edition of Australia’s Wine List of the

The 31st edition of Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards (@auswinelistoftheyear ) is set to accept entries from 1 April until 13 May. This prestigious competition invites industry professionals such as operators, sommeliers, and beverage directors to submit their wine lists for evaluation. Entries must be submitted through an online portal, details of which will be available in the awards’ newsletter from 1 April. The evaluation panel comprises both Australian and international wine experts who will assess submissions based on several criteria, awarding them up to three glasses. Various category awards are available, including best in state and type of wine, with one venue receiving the title of Australia’s Wine List of the Year and the winning sommelier being honoured with the Judy Hirst award. Participation in the awards is highly beneficial for venues, offering increased exposure and recognition of their wine selection efforts.
Read more: www.winelistoftheyear.com.au
#wine #award #sommelier #beverage #hospitality