You don’t have to choose between Oscar and Otto, two hot new additions to Tauranga’s Strand. Otto can be your day time go to while Oscar comes into its own in the evening.
The ‘naughty twins’ are the brain children of Catherine MacLoughlin and Hamish Carter, local foodies with a strong pedigree in the Bay of Plenty. Eighteen years ago they set up Alimento Cafe, based on the way they like to enjoy coffee, food and friends. After eight successful years running Alimento they took a break to concentrate on their young family. The request from a close friend for Catherine to cater a function was the catalyst for Hereford Kitchen Catering, still going strong five years and 240 weddings later.
With their four children, now teens and tweens, more independent and a solidly established catering business, Hamish and Catherine felt ready to add another challenge in the hospitality arena. “There’s nothing more satisfying than serving great food to wonderful people,” Hamish says, explaining their motivation. “We love looking after everyone who walks through our doors, making them feel welcome and relaxed; it’s the reason why we are here. There are always magical moments when your business is helping people enjoy themselves.”