WHEN you love your job, work is never a chore.
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The owner and head chef at The Elms Cafe in Albury, Melissa Pollard, said she felt right at home in commercial kitchens.
Having opened her own business in Kiewa Street almost two years ago, Pollard said she still helped out in Albury Italian restaurant Nannini.
Pollard said she thrived in the commercial kitchen environment.
Born and bred in Albury, Pollard discovered her passion for cooking during lessons at Xavier High School.
After starting her apprenticeship at the Hovell Tree Inn, Pollard moved to Bathurst to complete her training.
A couple of years later, she moved back to Albury, working at the Resort Siesta and later becoming head chef of Hotel on Olive/Mercure Albury.
Now mum to Ryan, 11, and Jake, 7, Pollard said her own eatery offered a fresh and healthy take on contemporary Australian fare.
She said smashed avo was always popular for breakfast while a lunch favourite was a burrito bowl.
"I love cooking healthy and delicious food but you've still got to work your plate to look good too; you've got to be 'gram-worthy!" Pollard said.
She used Sir Dapper Coffee beans.
MEET MORE HOMEGROWN CHEFS:
What is your favourite dish?
Chicken and rice, anything Indian or Thai style.
What is your favourite season?
Winter. I can't wait to get soups on the menu; simple, tasty and all in one pot.
What are the staples in your pantry?
Rice, eggs, flour, sugar and chicken.
What is your earliest cooking memory?
Cooking minestrone at school. I loved it and went home and made it straight away.
Which ingredients do you grow yourself?
I'm a serial plant killer!
Name six people you'd invite to a dinner party.
My friends because they'd give me honest feedback!
What is a favourite foodie ritual?
Going out for dumplings at Hapi or Chopstix House.
What are you bingeing on TV? If anything.
No time at the moment.
What did you have for dinner last night?
What are you drinking at the moment?
Oyster Bay Pinot Noir
Details
The Elms Cafe,
2/515 Kiewa Street, Albury
Phone: (02) 6041 4178
Open for breakfast and lunch seven days, 7am to 2pm.
