There was probably no way on Earth that Midlands Chef Alex Poltera was not going to end up in a kitchen. Growing up in a household of accomplished and award-winning chefs was bound to have some effect on his upbringing. From a young age, Alex would spend family holidays catching fresh seafood along the Wild Coast.
He might not have been able to reach the stove tops, but this did not hinder him from preparing and cooking anything he happened to have caught that day – whether it be fresh crabs or fish.
A born and bred KwaZulu Natal Midlands boy, Alex was exposed to the hospitality industry right from the word go. His family had built and started Fern Hill Hotel before he had even been born.
For as long as Alex can remember, cheffing and hotel life has been hardwired into his DNA, and has formed part of who he is now. An active participant in the culinary scene, Alex is now a proud board member of both Chaine des Rotisseurs and SACA and is passionate about being an active participant in his industry.
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As the executive chef of The Snooty Fox Restaurant at Fern Hill Hotel in the Midlands, Alex has over the past six years transformed the menu into one which prides itself on using local ingredients. His simple and flavoursome approach to food is one that highlights the fundamental elements of a dish, rather than an overworked example. Known for its progressive plant-based offerings, Fern Hill is also a mecca for vegans and vegetarians visiting the Midlands. To sample wholesome and delicious Midlands’ cuisine at its best, be sure to visit Fern Hill Hotel. Open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner, stop in for a meal or even stay over with us in one of our four star rooms!
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