To inspire budding chefs.

Smeg has been chosen as the exclusive supplier of appliances for the recently opened VIVE Cooking School in the inner Sydney suburb of Rosebery NSW. VIVE has been developed to help food artisans, chefs and experts who shape the food industry to connect and engage with consumers who buy their products.

The kitchen features major Smeg appliances including the FAB 32 two-door refrigerator-freezer both right-hand and left-hand hinge, Black Linear 60cm oven (SFPA130N), SmartSense Plus 90cm induction cooktop, and 90cm Island rangehood, in addition to sinks, taps and dishwashers. It is also home to Smeg’s small appliances range of stand mixers, kettles and blenders.

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Smeg Australia general manager for sales and marketing, Jim Kalotheos said, “Smeg’s commitment to the VIVE Cooking School was an easy decision to make – it encapsulates our brand’s passion for food, quality and meaningful interaction between the consumer and our products.”

“We believe everyone can enjoy high quality, home cooked food – we just need to facilitate the means by which they achieve this. The VIVE Cooking School, together with Smeg, is inspiring consumers to share the passion for delicious, fresh, seasonal dishes,” he added.

Furthermore, VIVE Cooking School COO, Martine Lafarges told Appliance Retailer that the response has been “really positive” with the look and feel of the kitchen designed to be less commercial and more homely.

“We also wanted to make sure that we had durable and reliable appliances, and after an extensive amount of research, our choice to go with Smeg was obvious,” Lafarges said. “Our kitchen had to look and feel extra special, and with the Smeg appliances’ retro look, it’s an instant hit with people and they want the same thing in their kitchen. We also love the fact that Smeg is still a family business, therefore it’s not just about the appliances but the level of service,” she added.

VIVE also aims to teach students the importance of good produce, sustainable and organic ingredients, particularly with the growing awareness around health and wellness.

“Many Australians love to eat out because they are time-poor. However, consumers are becoming more aware of the real price of food by recognising the work put in to produce the food before it gets to the plate. Reality TV cooking shows certainly help people realise that they can, and should, cook more,” Lafarges explained.

The cooking school offers a wide range of cuisines from around the world, while making classes approachable and accessible to anyone. There are also technique classes on knife skills and the fundamentals of sauce-making.

“VIVE has just started its journey, with the firm intention to grow and share our passion and vision with as many people as possible,” she concluded.