Jonny Schwass plans to grow Ilex Cafe

Well-known Christchurch chef and restaurateur Jonny Schwass will take over the running of the Ilex Café in the Botanic Gardens at the end of this month.

Mr Schwass has been given a 15-year lease of the café, the Botanic Gardens’ playground kiosk and the Visitor Centre function room.

Jonny Schwass outside the Ilex Cafe.

Mr Schwass has run several restaurants in Christchurch over the years including Mrs Huck’s, Gorilla and Harlequin Public House.

Since its opening three years ago the Ilex Café has been run by Vbase, but it decided earlier this year that it would not seek a renewal of its contract as it wanted to concentrate on other aspects of its business.

The Council has spent the past few months looking for an experienced café/restaurant operator to take over the café and the associated Visitor Centre facilities run by Vbase.

Council Acting Head of Parks Brent Smith said a number of parties had expressed interest but the proposal put forward by Mr Schwass stood out because of his experience and visionary approach.

“He is passionate about what he does and are very excited to have the chance to provide a world class food and beverage option within the Botanic Gardens, which is one of the most popular visitor attractions in Christchurch,’’ Mr Smith said.

Mr Schwass, who was chosen as Cuisine magazine’s Restaurant Personality of the Year in 2011, said he was passionate about nourishing the community with ethical, authentic quality food and hospitality.

He was planning an interesting, innovative café menu featuring “honest seasonal dishes’’ packed with nutrients and full of flavour.

“The menu’s focus on local producers will strengthen the Botanic Gardens’ attraction for out-of-town visitors wanting to sample real Christchurch fare and give locals an added reason to visit with friends and family,’’ Mr Schwass said.

“I want to provide a world class dining experience for our guests in a casual and relaxed environment. It won’t be high-end dining. It will be simple, good quality food that that reflects my belief in sustainability, seasonality and locally sourced products.’’

Mr Schwass said he had no intention of changing the café’s name. He hoped there would only be a couple of days between when Vbase ceased operation of the café at the end of the month and when he reopened it to the public.