Mike Jacques: Cooking with context, coastal produce and a new era for Queenscliff dining

In this episode of The Local Palate, Cam O’Keefe sits down with Mike Jacques, executive chef of TARRA Queenscliff, a waterfront restaurant redefining what destination dining looks like on the Bellarine.From Michelin-starred kitchens in the UK to leading one of the region’s most unique dining rooms beside the ferry terminal, Mike shares how place has reshaped the way he cooks. He reflects on building a menu that mirrors the landscape, his commitment to local produce and seafood, and the philosophy of doing simple things extraordinarily well.The conversation also explores the realities of modern hospitality, from rising costs and shifting customer habits to the importance of identity, community and creating venues worth travelling for. Along the way, Mike opens up about kitchen culture, moving away from old-school intensity, and leading teams with a more thoughtful, sustainable approach.It’s a grounded conversation about food, leadership and the evolving story of the Bellarine as a serious dining destination.🎙️ Recorded at TNG Studios in Torquay🌊 A restaurant on the water, shaped by its surroundings🍽️ Simple things done extraordinarily wellAvailable now on your favourite podcast platform.