Still relatively new to the Zhuzi Asian Restaurant at the SS&A Club in Albury, Crossman sharpened his culinary skills among Melbourne restaurant royalty The Lucas Group (Chin Chin, Kong, Baby).

Having worked for Gen Y favourite Chin Chin for almost three years, Crossman refined his understanding of Asian-style street fare.

“(The Lucas Group executive chef) Benjamin Cooper is an amazing and talented chef,” he said.

“They were great times, a great team and a good energy.”

Crossman shaped his cooking style and embraced Asian flavours at Langton’s, Nu Nu in Palm Cove and the acclaimed Pearl restaurant in Melbourne. 

“I love the flavours of Thailand,” he said.

“My background at Pearl and Nu Nu introduced me to tropical flavours and it’s where I first started making curries.

“Curries are my favourite to cook because of the work that goes into it; to achieve balance and harmony takes dedication.”

The Echuca-born chef started his training at Oscar Ws before he met his Albury-born wife Melanie Schouten at Nu Nu.

They have settled on the Border with their daughter, Stella Blue, 18 months.

What's your favourite dish?

Noodles and curries.

What are the staples in your pantry?

Rice, noodles, Megachef Oyster Sauce, Healthy Boy Soy Sauce.

What's the biggest product discovery you have made in cooking?

Megachef gluten-free soy and fish sauces. They’re made in Thailand and unbelievably good quality.

What's your secret vice?

Going out for breakfast. Mr Benedict (Albury) usually.

What is your recipe standby?

Gai Yang Chicken. (A Thai classic that uses lemongrass, fish sauce and other Thai ingredients.) 

What is your most unforgettable meal and where?

My favourite place in the world is Au Pied de Cochon in Montreal, it’s Quebec fare. I ate there seven nights in a row. Per Se in New York City is amazing. Chef Thomas Keller is my cooking hero.

What's your favourite cooking utensil?

My knife (Konosuke) and wok.

What did you have for dinner last night?

Pad Thai

What are you drinking?

Espresso

Details:

Zhuzi Asian Restaurant

SS&A Club,

570-582 Olive Street, Albury

Phone: (02) 6041 2222