Andrei Kononov joined the RCH last month as our new Executive Chef. He brings extensive commercial cooking experience and is a fantastic addition to our kitchen team.

Tell us about yourself.

I was born in Moscow, Russia and came to Australia in the mid-1990s. My first job was as a kitchenhand at the age of 15, but I was initially looking to pursue an academic career in English Literature and Behavioural Science.

After finding my love and passion for the culinary world in my early twenties, I have had the pleasure of working my way through many restaurants, including around six years in Melbourne’s fine dining scene.

Why did you choose to work at the RCH?

My choice to work at The Royal Children’s Hospital was driven by wanting to be involved in something that had a large positive impact on the community and looking after children in the care of the RCH really gives my role a lot of value and meaning. Also, RCH is a truly prestigious and world-class organisation with a great reputation in the medical community, which also made the role incredibly attractive.

What’s a moment from your career that you’re proud of?

Running a central production kitchen during Melbourne’s lockdowns. During the peak of lockdown number two, we were able to cater for over 700 aged care residents per day, ensuring they had easy access to nutritious and delicious food.

Also, being listed in the Good Food Guide for two years in a row during my restaurant career.

What’s your favourite thing to do outside of work?

Outside of work, I like to immerse myself in Melbourne’s culture and enjoy visiting the many restaurants, galleries and theatres.

If you could travel anywhere in the world tomorrow, where would you go and why?

I would go to Japan, ideally for a few weeks, so I could explore the many regions.