From Kitchen to Plate: The Making of The Captain’s Dining Experience
Tom Monk - Executive Chef (left), and Tim Stephenson - Head Chef (right)
At The White Swan, great food isn’t just about taste—it’s about the people behind it. In the kitchen, chefs Tom and Tim are the driving force behind the new Captain’s Dining Menu, bringing their passion, creativity, and love for local ingredients to every dish.
These two spend their days working side by side, sharing ideas, testing recipes, and pushing each other to make every dish better than the last. They’ll tell you themselves—it all starts with great local ingredients, and they’re passionate about using the best of what’s grown, caught, and crafted right here in New Zealand.
Their philosophy is simple: use quality ingredients, cook them properly, and have fun doing it. They believe great food doesn’t need to be complicated—just thoughtful, flavorful, and made with care. By blending classic techniques with bold flavors and creative twists, they craft dishes that feel both comforting and exciting.
But food is more than technique—it’s about the experience. The Captain’s Dining Menu is designed to be more than just a meal; it’s an opportunity to slow down, savor, and connect with the story behind each ingredient. Whether you’re a local, staying with us, or passing through Greytown, this menu offers a true taste of place, passion, and craftsmanship.
So, if thoughtfully made, flavor-packed food sounds like your kind of dining experience, grab a seat and let Tim and Tom take you on a journey through the best of the region.