Meet Our Head Chef: Leizel

Behind every great dish at Ollieo is a story and Head Chef Leizel's begins long before she stepped into our kitchen.

With 15 years of professional cooking experience, Leizel brings heart, heritage, and creativity to every plate, blending classic techniques with bold, flavour-driven ideas.

A Life Shaped by the Kitchen

Cooking has always been part of Leizel's life. Inspired by her father, who was also a chef, she grew up in a family-run restaurant in the Philippines. From as young as eight years old, she was already helping her dad in the kitchen - learning the rhythms, discipline, and love that go into great food.

At 19, Leizel moved to Australia, continuing the path she always knew was hers.

Trained in Italian restaurants, building her skills and refining her style over the past 15 years.

“Being a chef has always been my path.”

Life in the Ollieo Kitchen

A typical day for Leizel starts with checking each section of the kitchen, making sure everything is prepped and ready before service begins. For her, organisation and flow are key - especially during busy service times.

What she loves most about being Head Chef at Ollieo is the creative freedom.

“Creating your own food and having the freedom to be creative makes all the difference.”

She describes Ollieo’s food style as Italian and French inspired, with classic foundations - a balance of tradition and modern flavour.

Creativity on the Plate

When it comes to creating new dishes, Leizel draws inspiration from TV cooking shows, books, and experimenting with flavours. She especially loves working with spices, using them to bring depth and balance to her dishes.

Her standout favourite? The pork cutlet - a dish she’s particularly proud of and one that perfectly represents her approach to flavour and technique.

Food Philosophy: Balance Above All

For Leizel, great food is all about balance.

“Flavour, texture, and harmony on the plate.”

Her goal is simple but powerful: she wants every guest to leave feeling satisfied and happy after their meal. Teamwork also plays a huge role in her philosophy.

“It’s key. During service, it takes the whole team working together.”

Beyond the Pass

If Leizel wasn’t a chef, she once thought she might work in childcare but after trying it, she realised the kitchen was where she truly belonged.

At home, her cooking takes a different direction. She leans more towards Asian flavours, with comforting meals like rice dishes and ramen.

What’s Next at Ollieo

Guests can look forward to a new menu coming soon, with even more flavour-packed dishes and thoughtful combinations.

We’re incredibly proud to have Leizel leading our kitchen, and we can’t wait for you to experience what she’s cooking next!