Our team
Who we are
We've been kickin' it here in Palm Cove for over 20 years, and in that time, have seen staff come and go, and come back – much like watching the seasons change out at the coral sea, the movement is part of the dramatic and beautiful nature of Far North Queensland.
Remaining stoic at the helm are co-owners, Nick Holloway (Executive Chef) and Jason Rowbottom (Front of House) along with their wives, Amy Escott and Mo Rowbottom
Above all else, we value bringing together a creative, energetic and passionate team. When arriving at Nu Nu, you will be welcomed by our dedicated, highly skilled, fun and professional team.
We strive to provide you with the most authentic and genuine experience possible.
Our story
In 2003, Melbourne friends Nick, Jase, Amy and Mo embarked on a Far North Queensland adventure which marked the start of something very special.
After chancing upon the unrealised potential of the sleepy village of Palm Cove, the band of adventurers embarked upon their dream of opening a seaside restaurant. In 2004, Nu Nu was born with Nick on the pans and Jase out the front and all their friends and family pitching in to help.
Through passion, patience and perseverance, Nu Nu continues to strive and showcase the bounty of fresh, tropical produce from the reef to the rainforest, the cattle stations to the cane fields and all that Far North Queensland has to offer.
Over the years, Nu Nu has gained the attention of both national and international media alike for its exuberant food and professional yet laid back service and hospitality.
This journey so far has seen Nu Nu move to its current absolute beachfront position. The Nu Nu team have expanded their interests to also include Numi Ice Creamery on the Palm Cove Esplanade and Nu Nu Events & Catering in Stratford.
Today, Nu Nu is synonymous with the picturesque palm trees that meet the Coral Sea and continues to inspire and bring joy to patrons through its distillation of this incredible region.
Our chef
Nick had a humble introduction to kitchen life. When washing dishes to earn a living while studying Engineering at Melbourne University, Nick quickly realised he enjoyed the energy of the hospitality industry.
He became inspired to use cooking as his creative outlet after seeing Geoff Lindsay speak at a chef’s symposium and applied to cook at Stella, where he would start his apprenticeship.
Nick took the opportunity to work at Blake’s under the tutelage of Andrew Blake, before returning with Geoff to open Pearl Restaurant in Richmond. He stayed at Pearl for four years before getting the urge to make a significant sea change.
Nick purchased a one-way ticket to Cairns, and the Nu Nu Restaurant story began in 2004.
Nick has appeared on Channel 10’s Masterchef Australia twice as a guest chef for an Immunity Challenge and Taste Test Challenge. Nick has also featured as a guest presenter at many high profile events including the Noosa Food and Wine Festival and Melbourne Food and Wine Festival.