Born and raised in New Zealand, Jude Kereama trained under renowned chef Simon Gault before moving to the UK. With accolades in Auckland and London, Jude settled in Porthleven, Cornwall, in 1996, quickly becoming one of the county’s most celebrated chefs. His mixed Māori and Chinese Malay heritage shines through in his cuisine, which combines eclectic flavors with Cornwall’s seasonal bounty.
As Chef Patron of Kota, a fine dining restaurant with three AA Rosettes, and the family-friendly Kota Kai, Jude works closely with local suppliers to create inspired dishes. His achievements include representing the South West on Great British Menu, where he reached the banquet as a top-scoring runner-up, showcasing Cornish ingredients and innovation. Kota has earned numerous awards, including ‘Restaurant of the Year’ from the Cornwall Life Food & Drink Awards.
Beyond the kitchen, Jude is an ambassador for Hospitality Action and supports causes like Macmillan, Action Against Hunger, and the Fisherman’s Mission. His dedication to his craft and community underscores his reputation as a leading figure in Cornwall’s culinary scene.