How to be a better cook

Welcome to my Substack.

Hello, I’m Darren, most people call me Daz. I’m a chef, cook book author and co owner of a bunch of restaurants in Australia.

I’m from the UK originally, but after working in Michelin Starred Gravetye Manor for 4 years, I decided to move down under to work for Tetsuya Wakuda.

I stayed at Tetsuyas for 8 years (4 years as head chef) then left and opened a handful of restaurants around Australia with a bunch of mates. These restaurants are all called ‘Three Blue Ducks’ and they’re still running today. One of them is on a working Farm in Byron Bay, which is where I currently live, with my partner Magdalena and our two kids.

I’ve co-written several cook books, been on the telly a few times and contributed for many food publications. But ultimately, I just love to cook and share recipes that actually work.

On these pages I’m going to be sharing everything I know to help you improve your cooking game. Kitchen tips, food hacks and my go-to recipes in working over 25 years in professional kitchens.

Have been fortunate enough to work with so many amazing people over the years. BTW… I think the photographer got me to sit down in this shot, as I’m freakishly tall, like a giraffe!

From the absolute basics, quick and easy snacks, drinks, kids packed lunches, picnics and cooking outdoors, to how to throw an awesome dinner party.

You’ll have full access to ask me anything about the recipes, plus I’ll be hosting live cook ups, and chatting to some of my favourite people in food.

Chefs, producers, people and places that inspire me to be a better cook.

Cheers, Daz xx