About Charlie Bill

Award winning chef Hemi Tahu and partner Leigh Thornett welcome you to their Wellington bistro - 'Charlie Bill - Fine Food Bistro'.

Hemi has worked alongside some of the best in the business, has won numerous industry awards including “Chef of the Nation” and “Chef of the Capital” and is recognised as an innovator.

His illustrious career spans over 20 years, and his previous experience at restaurants like Wharekauhau Country Estate (one of the world's top 20 resorts) and Bisque on Bolton (at the Bolton Hotel), suggest it won't be long before Charlie Bill becomes a favourite.

Hemi’s skill at combining seasonal produce in exciting ways will keep diners’ taste buds tingling, while Leigh, working at the front of house, will ensure their dining experience is both comfortable and relaxing.

The name Charlie Bill has special significance for Hemi. His late grandfather, Alfred Mohi, who was in the Maori Battalion during World War Two, nicknamed Hemi ‘Charlie Bill’ when he was very young.

“My family has been a huge inspiration for me” says Hemi, “My grandfather owned a farm in Omori on the western shores of Lake Taupo and taught me to live off the land. He and my father taught me to catch and smoke trout, and I learnt deer stalking and pig hunting with my uncles. Being Ngati Tuwharetoa, I had the privilege of hunting koura with hand nets on full moon nights”.

“I guess my interest in food stems from those early years, and I wanted to recognise my grandfather's influence by naming my restaurant in his honour,” he says.

The restaurant offers intimate, relaxed dining. Charlie Bill is open for dinner Wednesday – Sundays (closed Monday and Tuesday) at 241 Tinakori Road.