"I cook with wine, sometimes I even add it to the food"
- W.C. Fields
About Us
The Chef
Ross brings his world-class skills and genius to Pippin Took2. .He has won multi awards and has had a stellar career with many years of industry experience.
He has competed successfully, locally, nationally and internationally, having won the fiercely competitive Global Chef Challenge to represent the Pacific Rim region, then competing in Santiago, Chile as one of the 7 finalists in the world, where he was placed 3rd. in the world.
Ross has also been selected to represent Australia on two occasions at the Bocuse D’or World Cuisine in Lyon, France and attending the International Culinary Olympics where he was awarded 2 gold, 1 silver and 3 bronze medals.
Winning many accolades throughout his career, Ross has been recognized locally winning the Chef of Chefs and recognized nationally with 2 prestigious Australian Gold Plate Awards.
Ross’ driving force is his zeal for producing the best contemporary food consistently, with a true sense of professionalism and hospitality. It’s a long-held enthusiasm, taking seed at the age of 15, when Ross commenced his chef’s apprenticeship at the Crest International Hotel in Brisbane, where he learnt his skill in classical French cooking that remains a foundation of his cooking today. Ross is a member of the Acadamie Culinaire de France.
Having owned and operated award winning restaurants, the combination of Ross Howell’s creative ability, and Helen Johnson’s wealth of industry experience and expertise makes them a formidable team, orientated and focussed to ensure consistency in all areas.
“My Partner and I went to Pippin Took recently for our Birthday lunch, and we wanted something special. From the moment we walked in we new we were in for a treat. The food was amazing, every mouthful was savoured. The ambience was relaxing and Helen was wonderful. We certainly have this Restaurant on our hit list now and can’t wait to return. Thank you for a great dining experience.”
Google Review
“My wife and I booked and went there for dinner last Friday night. The decor was a little quirky but fabulous. The French Provincial black resin chairs were really comfortable, although I was slightly apprehensive about them before I sat down. Obviously there were some regulars there but Helen made everyone else feel equally welcome too. The food and service was excellent and not at all pretentious unlike other French or French style restaurants in Brisbane. The servings are typical of French cuisine and perfect for us. We will be back and wish it were a little closer to us. Finally, we could bring our own wine and corkage charge was very fair.”
Google Review
“What a wonderful meal! We shared an entree of duck pate which was so light and full of flavour. I had the duck for main which just fell away from the bone, the Paris mash was exquisite and the pickled red cabbage a perfect match. My husband enjoyed one of the best steaks he ever had. We finished off with an apple tart and a light chocolate mouse topped with a rose water Persian floss. Thank you so much for making Chris’s birthday so memorable.”
Google Review
“Absolutely Delicious!
This restaurant is a little Gem, with delicious French inspired cuisine and fabulous service. I would whole heartedly recommend you visit.”
Karen B
“SUPERB!!!!
My Wife and I had the most Wonderful Experience this evening at this exceptional Restaurant From the Heart felt Welcome at the door To the Gracious Farewell Both Food and Service are are absolutely Top Shelf Atmosphere marvellous Many Thanks To Helen and Ross.”
“Intimate lunch with friends here. Great French food and friendly service. A gem in Mt Tamborine. We will definitely be back.”
Awesome food great warm atmosphere
Teresa MacAuslan
Wow ! I am a foodie.. What a great restaurant and great service. Awesome food – a hidden gem. Must try, I would totally recommend going there, thank you Helen for making our lunch experience special . Been around the world – this is truly amazing food. My tummy was singing.
Sigrid Atkinson
Just had an amazing time with Helen from Pippin Took who looked after my mother in law for her 80th. that was an amazing evening, thank you. Excellent food and service!
Lance M
Delicious food and environment. Hosts where so friendly
Sandi Morel
Unexpected excellence!
Started out for Brisbane CBD lunch unfortunately was canceled which turn out to be something special. Headed for Mt Tambourine to sample Ross Howells latest offering after Pippin Took at Bardon and Dish at Milton. To say we found the meal excellent was an understatement, the bride chose the zucchini/halloumi fritters and the beef cheek. I chose the cauliflower veloute and confit duck then shared a baked custard that had a wobble like a panacotta. To say a pleasure in every bite is something I rarely have enjoyed. A marvellous lunch experience one I dare say will occur again and again. Thank You!!!
David R
I absolutely love this place, service amazing, slow cooked Angus beef cheeks fell apart in my mouth, we will be back, had my fav flowers on my table spring is in the air, this is even before dessert rating.