Owner and Chef Bernard McCarthy’s experience working in the Melbourne restaurant industry combined with his passion for fresh and seasonal produce drives his menu at Salix Restaurant.

Commencing his training as a chef at Fanny’s and Haskins & Tansy’s in Melbourne, Bernard furthered his skills as Head Chef at Madame Jo Jo's in St Kilda before opening Hairy Canary in Little Collins Street, which soon become a Melbourne institution.  

In 2000, Bernard moved to Western Australia to head up 44 King Street in Perth, which was awarded Best Cafe in Australia by the Mietta’s Restaurant guide. After two successful years, he returned to Melbourne to become the Executive Chef of EQ Cafe Bar at the Arts Centre.

Attracted to the idea of a sea-change and the opportunity to spend more time with his young family, Bernard made the move to the Mornington Peninsula in 2004. With wife Rachael running all special events, the McCarthy’s have put their own stamp on the restaurant which has been recognised with a number of prestigious industry awards and many happy customers.

Bernard believes the fusion of local Mornington Peninsula produce with the region's wines creates something truly special, and he works tirelessly to bring this out in his menus.