Chef du jour: Villa Rodnaya

Villa Rodnaya is a modern four-bedroom holiday retreat with superb views over Nai Thon Beach on the tranquil northwest coast of Phuket. Found on the hillside within the exclusive Malaiwana estate, Rodnaya has been built to please families and young groups. It’s brimming with facilities and features, such as a children’s playroom, a media room and an amazing 18-metre pool with a safety barrier for younger kids. Stroll down to the beach, or stay in and fall in love with Rodnaya’s stylish design and tranquil surrounds. And here’s a secret few know – the villa even has its own music studio, available only to professional musicians on request.
The open-plan kitchen at Villa Rodnaya has stunning views of the beautiful Nai Thon Beach, and we chatted with Chef Gear as she shared her favourite recipe with us. Here’s a sneak peek at what keeps the guests coming back to Villa Rodnaya – Chef Gear and her Grilled Chicken Thai Red Curry.
Elite Havens: What is your background?
Chef Gear: I didn’t plan to become a chef, but it was my destiny. I took a cooking class at high school, and at that moment I knew exactly what I wanted to do for a living.
EH: Did you train in the culinary arts?
CG: I do not have formal culinary training from a cooking school but it is my passion that has brought me here. After taking cooking lessons at school, I would cook for my family daily, and they are the hardest people to please!
EH: What qualities should one have to be a cook?
CG: It is so important to maintain hygiene and ensure that your work area is kept tidy.
EH: What did you cook for us today?
CG: Grilled Chicken Thai Red Curry.
EH: Why did you choose to make this dish for us?
CG: It’s my signature creation. A lot of my guests ask for it repeatedly and say that it is the best they have had in Thailand.
EH: What is your speciality dish or the flavours you like to cook with?
CG: My favourite dishes are Massaman Beef, Green Curry Chicken and Grilled Chicken. And of course,