When Sid and Chand Sahrawat had their first formal dining date at The French Café more than 15 years ago, little did they know that one day they would be the owners of the restaurant.
Today it was announced that New Zealand’s most highly awarded and esteemed restaurateurs, Creghan Molloy-Wright and Simon Wright of The French Café, are stepping aside from the restaurant after twenty years. The successful husband and wife duo are seeking a new challenge, more family time, and a well earned lifestyle change.
This decision has been amongst the most challenging of our lives,” says Creghan. “But we know it’s the right one – Sid and Chand are absolute professionals, and will continue to have our incredible team working with them to ensure customers are delivered the holistic experience they come to enjoy.”
From September, the restaurant will be renamed Sid at The French Café, adding a new jewel to the Sahrawat crown, joining Sidart and Cassia. Sid will initially focus on the transition of Sid at The French Café before handing over the reigns to the new head chef, Lesley Chandra.
While the changing of the guard comes with an element of sadness, it’s also a very exciting time, especially for Sid. The French Café not only holds significance in Sid and Chand’s relationship, but also in Sid’s culinary career. He remembers the first meal the couple shared, saying, “The meal we had on that occasion was spectacular – so much so, it inspired me to create the style of food I produce today.”
