Modern Day Willy Wonka, Put’s QT Gold Coast at the top of the Awards List

Ever wondered how our pastry team consistently pushes the boundaries, creating the unexpected each and every week? 

We sat down with our Head of Pastry and Queensland Hotel Awards 2024 Chef of Year winner, Daniel King, to grasp how he delivers sweet treats to rival Willy Wonka. 

So Daniel, you have been a part of some incredible activations over the past 12 months, which stands out as your fave? 

Our most recent Easter activation inspired by Kung Fu Panda 4 has been a huge highlight of mine. We involved the whole pastry team from concept to creation of large-scale chocolate sculptures. Throughout the process we were able to problem solve with technique for each individual piece, looking into the mechanical factors to ensure the chocolate sculptures held in place. Complementing the sculptural installation, QT Gold Coast hosted themed Easter high teas and kids decorating classes which were very popular and received amazing feedback.  

Creativity is something that comes naturally to you, how do you go about bringing one of these fantastical visions into a reality? 

Work with what you know, incorporate ideas and problem solve to overcome challenges and keep moving forward. I love to incorporate the whole pastry team within the initial phases, providing everyone a platform to share ideas and thoughts, push each other to think outside the box. Masters in the industry also inspire me, from the likes of Adriano Zumbo, Vincent Gadan even Amaury Guichon.  

What do you find to be the most rewarding part of your job? 

To have one of my ideas come to life. With the help of the team, we are always pushing the boundaries and experimenting. Whilst the process can be testing, we receive great rewards when we see the finished product being enjoyed by guests. 

Have you got any advice for up-and-coming chef’s especially ones who are wanting to forge their path in the pastry? 

To have confidence in the process. It’s the imperfection that ultimately makes perfection. The first hundred attempts of any new skills are the hardest, but it gets easier, make sure you always challenge yourself and don’t let the setbacks get you down. 

Finally, any insights into what we might see next?  

With Christmas just around the corner, we are looking to elevate our fantastical wonderland, Gingerland, which last year hosted all the classic and not-so-classic Christmas delicacies. It was the first time we created the sweet-filled shop, where we covered the walls from floor-to-ceiling with edible gingerbread. It was a learning curve, but we already have some amazing ideas for this coming Christmas, and maybe sweet collaboration, so watch this space.  

Check out the 2023 Gingerland pop-up here.