Tara Cheyne MLA: The night-time economy is integral to our city. Photo: Michelle Kroll.
Who are you?
I’m Tara Cheyne, ACT Labor member for Ginninderra and Minister in the ACT Government.
Tell me about your role as Minister for the Night-Time Economy: what does that entail?
I’ve had ministerial responsibility for the night-time economy for a little while now (as part of my previous role as Minister for Regulatory Reform). Because it’s so integral to so many other facets of our city – let alone the government’s priorities and vision for Canberra – it became its own portfolio at the start of this term.
My immediate focus is on implementing our election commitments, which further support venues that showcase cultural acts and monitor the reception of our new noise standards in the city.
You have a blog where you’ve often spoken about food. How did you get started doing that?
‘Have’ is very generous! I think I haven’t updated it since it was active, so I’m really touched that people remember. It started because I felt like I was having some amazing experiences in Canberra that weren’t readily reflected in the media I was consuming, and I wanted to share all the good things that might surprise some people.
Bar Rochford owner Nick Smith and Minister Tara Cheyne watch Chief Minister Andrew Barr pour a cocktail. Photo: Ian Bushnell.
If you weren’t in politics, what would you be doing instead?
I love to write but I’m realistic about just how good you have to be to make a career from it. I’ve always admired teachers, and they’ve been so pivotal in my life; I’d like to give back in a similar way someday.
What is your food philosophy?
You can’t go past something simple done well.
What is your favourite or must-use ingredient when cooking?
There are very few dishes that can’t be enhanced with lemon, Philadelphia cream cheese, hot sauce or chilli oil, and/or cheese.
Suburban gems like Sweet Bones and Muku Ramen have helped to transform Scullin Shops into a thriving community hub. Photo: Lucy Ridge.
What’s an underrated Canberra venue that you love?
I love our suburban gems: Sweet Bones in Scullin, Raijin in McKellar, Café Mame in Melba, Little Oink and TAMF in Cook and Two Before Ten in Aranda. These are really high-calibre offerings that have helped transform our local shops back into go-to meeting places.
Who do you admire in the Canberra food scene?
Sean McConnell (Rebel Rebel), Jono Murphy (Squeaky Clean), Lucy Holm (Sandoochie), John Leverink (Beltana Farm and more), Andy Day (Rizla). All people who have an innate understanding of what goes well together and consistently deliver something fresh and satisfying.
Where’s the best place for a drink in Canberra?
I love Bar Rochford. The vibe is relaxed, and everything about the experience is top-notch. Whether you’re on your own, catching up with friends, or celebrating an anniversary, you’re guaranteed to enjoy yourself.
Who is your dream dinner party guest, and what would you make them?
My dad. This year will be 10 years since he died, and I still feel his absence every day. I’d make burritos – he had this great recipe for beef that I try to replicate. I’d love to get his thoughts on my version and what I’m missing, and to get his advice and wisdom on plenty of other things, too.
Squeaky Clean owner Jonathan Murphy makes an obsession-worthy burger. Photo: Squeaky Clean.
What is your current food obsession?
The burgers at Squeaky Clean have been a year-long obsession for me. Best burgers in town.
What’s the best thing you’ve eaten lately?
An incredible scallop dish at Rebel Rebel on New Year’s Eve.
What’s a food that reminds you of your childhood?
Fairy bread, chocolate crackles … all the good stuff!
What’s a typical breakfast for you?
I don’t usually eat breakfast, but I am a big fan of breakfast for dinner! Soft-boiled eggs, good bread, lashings of butter and good salt are nourishing and comforting.
Where do you shop for groceries?
We do direct-to-boot orders from Woolworths for the basics. For high-quality ingredients, The Cook Grocer is my pick, as well as Ziggy’s at Fyshwick Markets.
The mural at the Cook Grocer store is popular with locals. Photo: Supplied.
When you can’t be bothered to cook for yourself, where do you go and what do you eat?
I have a serious weakness for Guzman y Gomez. My fiancé loves our local Indian restaurant, The Poet. He picks up takeaway there at least once a week.
Where have you been travelling recently?
We’ve just had a few days in Wellington, New Zealand, for Christmas – it’s the first time my mum met my fiancé’s family. I suspect we’ll try to get a holiday in over the winter months. I have a real fascination with the US, and it’s been my destination of choice for a while now. There’s so much variety across cultures, landscapes and cuisines.
Tell me something you love about living in Canberra
Everything! I will never get tired of the sunrises and sunsets – even better when they’re viewed from one of our lakes or our nature reserves. We’re spoiled.
What have you been reading?
I’ve just finished Miranda July’s All Fours. I’m still deciding how I feel about it!
An easy one to finish – what’s your go-to coffee order?
Weak almond iced latte or a chai latte.
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