Vidal Restaurant Team

Jillene Slui - Head Chef  

Jillene started at Vidal as an apprentice chef 24 years ago and has now returned home after 14 years abroad where she crafted her culinary skills in the kitchens of the Como Properties in places such as Umaparo Resort in Bhutan, Nahm Restaurant at the Halkin Hotel London and the renowned 5 Star Parrot Cay Resort in the Caribbean.  

Jillene's food philosophy is for fresh and simple dishes using really good produce. Her style is uncomplicated and inspired by Mediterranean, Moroccan and Spanish flavours. 

She is thrilled to be back in Hawkes Bay and excited at the variety of excellent local producers available in the region as well as the opportunity to prepare the menu using produce from the Vidal organic garden onsite.   

Shane Pugh – Retail and Hospitality Manager

Shane has been an integral part of the Winery Restaurant since 1999. 

In 2008 Shane was named ‘Most Outstanding Maitre ‘D’ in the inaugural Hawkes Bay Hospitality Awards and in 2009 received the award for ‘Most Outstanding Front of House Personality’. 

During his time with Vidal’s, Shane has been mentored by Sir George Fistonich, owner and managing director of the Villa Maria Group (which encompasses Vidal’s).

He has furthered his commitment to the industry by becoming involved in several regional hospitality committees such as the Hawkes Bay branch of the Restaurant Association - which works to aid the progress of the industry – and has consequently become a prominent and well regarded figure in the Hawkes Bay hospitality scene.

With an extensive background and wealth of knowledge in food and wine, Shane places great emphasis on educating staff and ensuring professionalism - making certain that all customers are given the full dining experience at every sitting.

Vidal Restaurant Gallery