As far as Covid success stories go, Andy Hearnden’s is up there with the best. The pandemic threw a spanner in his decades-long professional career in esteemed kitchens here and abroad. So, in late 2021, he launched Andy Cooks. And the next era of his career took off.

“If anyone asked me as a kid what I was going to be when I grew up, I only ever had one answer: a chef,” Hearnden tells Broadsheet. “I grew up in a house where we always sat down at the dinner table together – breakfast, lunch and dinner. There are plenty of old photos of me as a kid, playing with plastic food, pretending I was running my own restaurant.”

Andy Cooks took over Tiktok first, then it was Instagram, Youtube and the world. Today, millions tune in to his charmingly casual cooking tutorials (be it for “the ultimate” grilled cheese, okonomiyaki or tortellini in brodo) and road tests (like investigating whether the quality of your salt affects the taste of your steak).

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The star recently moved to Sydney with Babe, the affectionate moniker for his wife and business partner Katelyn Flood. We caught up with Hearnden to find out where they’ve enjoyed eating so far.

Andy, welcome to Sydney! What’s your go-to if you want a quick takeaway dinner?
At the moment it’s Henrietta or Samir’s Indian Kitchen.

What about lunch on the go?
Good Ways Deli is not far from my studio and they make some tasty sandwiches there. Highly recommend the deli sandwich with kangaroo mortadella.

What’s your favourite snack in Sydney?
I do love a good Portuguese tart, and Tuga Pastries is close to my studio so that has become my favourite treat.

Where’s the ideal spot for a date?
I’m taking my partner to Bessie’s. The room is beautiful, the food is amazing and they have a great drinks list with some incredible wines for Katelyn. I had one of the best non-alc cocktails there. Morgy, Nathan and the entire team have created something pretty special.

If it’s a special occasion, where are you booking?
I’m going to Ester and ordering the blood sausage and the salt crab.

Where can you find the best coffee in Sydney?
At my studio? I do love my coffee, so having a proper set up at home and work is a must! Mecca Coffee in Alexandria is also great.

Where’s Sydney’s best burger?
Might head out to Chebbo’s for that one.

You want a snack and a drink, where are you heading?
Bar Copains for their potato scallops and a glass of NON.

Do you have a go-to for a long lunch?
I haven’t had many long lunches in Sydney yet, but I had a great one at Margaret – we ordered the King George whiting and a steak.

How about a meal with a big group of family or friends?
We’d probably head out to Royal Palace Seafood Restaurant.

What’s your bucket-list restaurant?
Asador Etxebarri.

If you’re after something sweet, where are you heading?
Ice-cream is my go-to sweet treat. I head to Messina for two scoops in a cup – the flavour depends on what specials they have on.

What’s something that’s especially satisfying to cook in Sydney?
Shellfish! Sydney Fish Markets are amazing.

Where’s the best spot to get groceries?
Carriageworks Farmers Market.

What’s your hidden gem pick?
Biryani Delights in Surry Hills.

@andyhearnden