Ashley Davis to join Pure South

Pure South, the Southbank restaurant that embraces all things Tasmanian, has announced Ashley Davis as the replacement for departed head chef Dwayne Bourke. Davis, who grew up in Sunshine, moved to Britain in 2005 and spent the past 2½ years as head chef of highly regarded Helene Darroze at The Connaught Hotel, in London's Mayfair, during which time the restaurant was promoted from one to two Michelin stars. Pure South co-owner Philip Kennedy, who regularly visits Apple Isle farmers and producers, is thrilled with the new appointment. "We both come from the idea of working directly with producers and I think Ashley was romanced by our method of working towards the plate while we're standing with producers on the farm." Davis started two weeks ago and will introduce his new menu in the next fortnight, using his established technique and using Tassie produce.

Hilary McNevin