Fresh from Milan, where he picked up Two Knives at The Best Chef Awards 2025, Zennon Wijlens — Co-Owner and Executive Chef of Paris Butter, Auckland — joins Holly to talk creativity, ego and collaboration in one of Aotearoa’s most awarded kitchens.

In the past two months alone, Zennon’s been named Best Chef by Metro Magazine and led Paris Butter to retain Three Hats in the Cuisine Good Food Guide Awards. But this episode isn’t just about accolades — it’s about what success really means once you’re leading the team.

Zennon shares how collaboration keeps chefs grounded, why humility matters as much as skill, and what it takes to evolve creativity year after year.

Planning a trip to Auckland? Book a table at Paris Butter and see why it’s one of the most talked-about restaurants in the region. Check them out on Instagram @parisbutter_nz.

And if you’re looking to grow your own food, wine or hospitality brand, book a free 30-minute strategy call with Holly at hollyformosa.com/letstalk.