09/05/2026
Meet Jason & Venice 😄 key parts of our crew here at Malo Restaurant. Originally from South Africa & the Phillipines respectively, they both began their journeys studying hospo in their home countries before eventually meeting and working together in the USA. Over six years, they worked across a range of venues - from golf estates in South Florida to a scenic small town in North Dakota - building their experience together both on the floor and in the kitchen.
After travelling to New Zealand post-Covid, they joined the team at Malo and have since become a big part of the restaurant’s day-to-day experience and culture.
As Restaurant Manager, Venice is often the first face guests see when they walk through the door, known for her warm welcome and genuine hospitality. She manages reservations and event enquiries, supports and trains the front-of-house team, and works closely with staff daily to ensure guests feel looked after from start to finish 😊
As Head Chef, Jason leads the kitchen team with a strong focus on consistency, quality, and teamwork. He oversees food preparation, staff training, kitchen hygiene, and service standards, helping deliver the experience Malo is known for 👨🍳 ✔️
Together, they bring a shared passion for hospitality, people, and creating memorable dining experiences.
