The Sydney Morning Herald logo
Advertisement

Is this what it takes to get a booking at Noma?

Scott Bolles
Scott Bolles

David Harris offered chef Rene Redzepi his home in return for seats at Noma.
David Harris offered chef Rene Redzepi his home in return for seats at Noma.Peter Braig

How far will someone go to nab a reservation at Noma? Harris Farm Markets founder David Harris has set a benchmark few of us will be able to match.

After several unsuccessful attempts to get into Noma restaurant in Copenhagen, Harris spotted an opportunity to eat at the soon-to-open, sold-out Noma pop-up at Barangaroo.

After reading that chef Rene Redzepi was having difficulties finding suitable accommodation for his family in Australia, Harris emailed the restaurant offering his waterfront Balmain home in return for a few meals.

"They got back to me within four hours. Rene asked if we could get his kids into the local public school. He's here now for four months, staying at our place with his wife, mother-in-law and kids."

Harris says that his wife "went crazy and spent over $20,000 painting the place and fixing things", when she found out about the international guests. Harris and his wife are staying in the property's boatshed during Redzepi's visit. "It's maybe not a great business deal, but my kids say it's a great story they'll be able to tell at my funeral."

Restaurant reviews, news and the hottest openings served to your inbox.

Sign up
Scott BollesScott Bolles writes the weekly Short Black column in Good Food.

From our partners

Advertisement
Advertisement