The faces behind the fare.

Inspired by food.

For five years, Kitchen Takeover has been pushing the boundaries of culinary creation, surprising and styling, bringing award-winning experiences to Tauranga and beyond.

We’re bold, we’re innovative and we want to create amazing memories for everyone who comes to one of our events.

We’re excited about the future, as our pop-ups begin to pop up further afield.

Meet the team behind the concept!

  • Jess Easton

    OWNER & DIRECTOR

    Jess did a long stint in hospitality in Melbourne, on her way to establishing a successful legal career. She dived back into the world of fine dining when joining Kitchen Takeover in early 2022. As well as being a director, she is a connector and resident wine-hunter, finding delicious vintages to pair with our food offerings. You’ll get to enjoy her expert choices across our carefully crafted wine menus. Jess’ whakapapa includes Ngāti Tūwharetoa and Ngāti Pūkenga.

    jess@kitchentakeover.co.nz

  • Annabel Taylor

    OWNER & DIRECTOR

    Annabel is a bit of a legend when it comes to upholding the vision of Kitchen Takeover. She has a Master of Business Administration and is skilled in business strategy, project management and customer service having led large teams on big projects in the past. This experience, coupled with her passion for good food, makes her an asset to our team.

    annabel@kitchentakeover.co.nz

  • Katy Bain

    RESTAURANT & EVENTS MANAGER

    Katy joined the Kitchen Takeover team in 2022 and is the glue that brings the key aspects of our Kitchen Takeover operation together. Katy has qualifications and experience in hospitality and events which makes her the right person to lead our operations, making sure we’re running as seamlessly and efficiently as possible so our foodies have an amazing dining experience at each of our events.

    events@kitchentakeover.co.nz

  • Shane Yardley

    EXECUTIVE CHEF

    Shane Yardley is our Executive Chef with platefuls of experience. Having spent the first part of his career training in some of the world’s most renowned restaurants, he did a long stint as Simon Gault’s right hand man. He has now returned to New Zealand as a tutor at Toi Ohomai teaching the next generation how to cook like a pro. Career highlights include Head Chef of Euro, Fish and a guest judge on MasterChef. Shane ensures we consistently bring our foodie tribe exceptional and unique food experiences.