Paul Smart Bio

Born in Adelaide, Paul Smart commenced and completed his apprenticeship within the five star hotel arena – so is no stranger to the art of fine cuisine. Paul spent 2 years in the UK with the Ritz London where he worked along side Executive Chef John Williams and Head Chef Fred Forrester. During his time abroad Paul was awarded UK commis Chef of the Year at the Academy of Culinary Arts in 2007. Cooking for her Majesty the Queen was a career highlight for Paul during his time in the UK, along with working with the Chefs of El Bulli’s which was voted the best Restaurant in the World from 2006 until 2009.
Since relocating back to Australian shores Paul has been a prominent figure on the awards trail for Room81. Paul led the restaurant to victory in the 2008 QLD restaurant of Champions competition and took home the Gold Medal in the Gold Box Restaurant Challenge in 2007, 2008 and 2009. In 2010 Room81 was awarded ‘Best Fine Dining Restaurant’ on the Gold Coast in the Savour AustraliaTM Restaurant & Catering Awards for Excellence.

Paul enjoys sharing his passion for food with the local community. He has conducted numerous live cooking demonstrations, such as that featured at the annual Broadbeach Restaurant Week alongside Australian celebrity Chef Tobie Puttock.
Paul’s attention to detail and passion for perfection results in an impressive menu for Room81 guests and his desire for innovative dining delights is sure to impress even the most discerning of taste buds.