Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Nabin has been cooking up a storm at Hog’s Breath since 2023. Photo credit: Whitsunday Life
Hog’s Breath Café has been a staple of the Airlie Beach dining scene for 37 years.
As the business continues to grow and evolve, so does the team, with new chefs bringing culinary skills from across the world to the iconic Airlie Kitchen.
One such chef is Nabin.
Nabin has been cooking in Hog’s Breath’s flagship restaurant since January 2023, arriving in Australia from his home country, Nepal.
Back home in Nepal, Nabin honed his skills across various cuisines. He began his career in a continental kitchen, cooking western and Mexican food alongside Nepalese dishes.
His favourite taste of Nepalese cooking would be the momos- traditional steamed or fried dumplings filled with minced meat or vegetables.
Now, three years has passed since Nabin’s move down under and he has integrated himself into life here in Airlie Beach.
Just last week, Nabin’s wife joined him here, meaning now, it truly feels like home.
Nabin’s wife cooks too, but- at least according to Nabin - he’s the best chef in the household.
Nabin’s favourite part of working at Hogs Breath is the team, who have a lot of fun working together and truly believe in the food they present.
When it comes to the Hog’s Breath menu, Nabin’s recommendations are hearty classics cooked with finesse – starting with the prime rib.
The prime rib is cooked for 18-hours in Hog’s Breath’s unique slow-cooking ovens because – as the team believes - greatness takes time. The meat is selected for its superior quality by trusted supplier Teys, which has been in partnership with Hog’s Breath since the first restaurant’s 1989 conception.
Once the Prime rib is ordered, it’s hand cut, seasoned and flame grilled to seal in maximum flavour. Then, it’s cooked to taste- though it’s recommended as best served medium-rare.
The prime rib is served with a choice of two sides, like the café’s iconic curly fries or creamy mac and cheese.
Nabin’s second recommendation is the Chicken Parmigiana - Crumbed chicken breast topped with Italian-style tomato sauce & a duo of melted cheeses. A classic done well!
As for the best time to visit, Nabin highlighted the live music that accompanies meals on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, as well as the Salsa dancing that takes over the restaurant floor on Thursday evenings.
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