Louis Smyrk: Luz Restaurant chef charged with destroying property

A Tasmanian chef who recently launched a casual fine dining restaurant with his partner, who runs the front of house, has been charged over an alleged argument with her.

A top Tasmanian chef who last year opened a casual fine dining restaurant with his partner, who operates the front of house, has fronted court after he was charged with destroying property belonging to her.

Launceston man Louis Kimberley Banjo Smyrk, 38, appeared in Launceston Magistrates Court on Wednesday charged with destroying property belonging to his business and life partner Nadia Amdor.

Tasmania Police allege the property destroyed was two wooden chairs, on July 12.

The duo are behind casual fine dining venue Luz Restaurant and Bar, which first opened at Coles Bay in early 2021, before they relocated in December to take up the lease at the Grand Hotel Launceston’s on-site restaurant.

The pair welcomed their first child together just one month before the alleged offence is said to have occurred, according to Luz’s Facebook page.

According to the restaurant’s website, Mr Smyrk has more than 20 years’ experience in kitchens and has worked under renowned chefs, including Gordon Ramsay and the French Pourcel brothers, in Michelin-starred restaurants.

He “has returned to his home soil with a vision of giving diners superb food memories utilising the freshest of the amazing local produce Tasmania has on offer,” the bio says.

Ms Amdor, meanwhile, “is dedicated to delivering unforgettable friendly service and guidance with all the beautiful local Tasmanian wines on (Luz’s) list”.

“Together, we are team Luz,” the write-up concludes.

The pair met while working together on Hamilton Island in 2019, ACM previously reported.

Mr Smyrk’s charge was adjourned until November 9.

* Editor’s note: A previous edition of this story incorrectly stated Luz Restaurant and Bar relocated to the Hotel Grand Chancellor.