As the owner and creative force behind Kika, James has brought a distinctive blend of global flavours, seasonal produce and bold, playful cuisine to the Southern Lakes region.
From the moment he first donned a chef’s jacket in the early 90’s aged 16, James pursued his passion with unwavering dedication. Completing a four year apprenticeship at The Park Lane Hilton, where he learnt every aspect of the kitchen emersed in the traditions of times gone by. Whilst honing his craft in some of London’s most esteemed kitchens, James met a Kiwi girl. Aged 24 he crossed hemispheres to New Zealand, bringing with him a bold ambition- to create food that surprises, delights, and feels entirely of its place.
In his early years in New Zealand, James took the helm at Pegasus Bay Winery, where his innovative food earned Restaurant of the Year in Cuisine Magazine. Later, settling in Wānaka, he led the kitchen at Whare Kea Lodge, conceiving a daily-evolving six-course tasting menu that became a draw for gastronomes. After 8 years at Whare Kea, it was time to open his first restaurant. With a deep love of Italian food, inspired by family road trips in the campervan across Europe, Francesca’s Italian Kitchen was born in 2012.
In 2017, James turned his ultimate culinary vision into reality with the launch of Kika. A restaurant not bound by rigid flavour profiles, free to explore global inspirations and the abundance of local produce. Regardless of the direction the dish takes, James always prioritises flavour. Kika isn’t trying to prove anything, it’s just good food.
Kika has garnered critical acclaim – earning multiple Hats and winning recognition as ‘Best Casual Dining’ in 2024’s Cuisine Awards and being selected in San Pellegrino The World’s 50 Best Restaurants Discovery list.
Beyond the plates, James is committed to Wānaka’s identity as a food destination. He views each meal at Kika as an opportunity: to reveal the region’s potential, to deepen connections with community, and to showcase that extraordinary food can flourish, right here in the Southern Lakes.
