Meet your host: Riska
Enjoyed a delicious meal at Wayfarer’s Bar & Café and found yourself wondering, who were those magicians in the kitchen conjuring up such delectable flavours in such pretty parcels on the plate? Well, cast the cloak aside, and you’ll find our resident dinner chef, Riska on the pans.
One of the talented team members cooking up our all-day menu at Wayfarer’s Bar & Café, Riska Malik has been passionately plating up dishes here for several years. Originally hailing from Indonesia, she brings inspiration from her homeland and travels and experiences aboard – she spent two years working on a cruise ship to Italy – honing her cooking skills, trying new ingredients and flavour combinations out whenever she can. Riska communicates her enthusiasm and zest for life through her cooking. She loves nothing more than seeing guests enjoy the dishes she prepares with careful skill and expertise.
Read on to uncover more about Riska and her travel and cooking styles here.
WHAT TYPE OF TRAVELLER ARE YOU?
I enjoy peaceful destinations that aren’t too crowded, and I love exploring nature.
WHAT’S YOUR FONDEST TRAVEL MEMORY?
One of my fondest memories is exploring new places while working overseas, especially during my time in Italy, and experiencing different cultures through food and nature. My most recent travel experience was in Trieste, Italy, during my time working on a cruise ship — a mix of work and travel.
HOW MANY LANGUAGES DO YOU SPEAK?
I speak two languages: English and Bahasa Indonesia.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT SYDNEY?
I love the beaches and the natural beauty of Sydney.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IN PYRMONT?
My favourite restaurant in Pyrmont is Rice and Curry, a small Thai restaurant with incredibly authentic flavours.
WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO SPEND A SUNNY DAY IN SYDNEY? AND A RAINY ONE?
On a sunny day, I enjoy walking around Rose Bay, having a picnic, and soaking in the views.
On a rainy day, I prefer relaxing somewhere warm and comfortable with good food.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE DISH ON THE WAYFARER’S MENU AND WHY?
My favourite dish is the Ratatouille Spaghetti. It has light ingredients, a perfect balance of tomato sauce with a hint of chilli paste, and roasted vegetables topped with fried leek for an umami finish — once you start eating, it’s hard to stop.
WHAT’S YOUR INSIDER TIP FOR GETTING THE MOST OUT OF A STAY AT AIDEN DARLING HARBOUR?
Take time to explore the beautiful local area, enjoy the harbour views, and feel free to ask our team for personalised recommendations — we’re always happy to help guests make the most of their stay.