Hospitality Consultancy

by Matt Woodhouse

Turning Vision into Reality

Matt Woodhouse brings over 25 years of culinary expertise and a deep understanding of the hospitality industry to help new and existing businesses thrive. Specialising in concept development and menu consulting, Matt provides actionable, creative, and results-driven strategies to elevate your restaurant, café, wine bar or catering service.

Consultancy Services

Chef Matt Woodhouse mentoring hospitality business professionals, sharing expert advice on innovative menu strategies and operational excellence to enhance private dining experiences.

Concept Development

From the spark of an idea to a fully realised dining destination, Matt works closely with you to bring your hospitality vision to life. With extensive experience in creating successful restaurant concepts, Matt provides insight into:

  • Defining your brand identity and unique selling proposition.

  • Curating a cohesive concept that aligns with your target audience.

  • Advising on design, ambience, and operational flow to enhance the guest experience.

Menu Consulting

A menu is the heart of any restaurant, and Matt’s expertise ensures yours stands out. Using seasonal, local, and innovative ingredients, he crafts menus that are not only delicious but also financially sustainable. Services include:

  • Designing menus tailored to your concept and audience.

  • Developing signature dishes that leave a lasting impression.

  • Collaborating with chefs and kitchen teams to implement the menu seamlessly.

Chef Matt Woodhouse engaged in menu consulting, reviewing innovative dish ideas and seasonal ingredients, exemplifying Black Slate Kitchen’s expertise in bespoke culinary strategy.

Who We
Work With

  • Launch your restaurant, café, wine bar or catering business with confidence. From concept to menu, Matt ensures every detail aligns with your vision.

  • Refresh and elevate your offering to attract new customers and improve operations.

  • Expand your capabilities with tailored menus and enhanced systems.

Why Choose
Matt Woodhouse?

Proven Expertise: From leading kitchens in Melbourne and Brisbane to creating innovative menus in France, the UK and New Zealand, Matt brings a wealth of knowledge and creativity to every project.

Tailored Approach: No two businesses are the same. Matt’s consulting is customised to your goals, location, and market.

Focus on Excellence: Every detail is considered, from food cost optimisation to delivering an unforgettable guest experience.

Chef Matt Woodhouse in his chef uniform, confidently smiling in the modern Black Slate Kitchen, showcasing over 25 years of culinary expertise.

Start Building Your Vision Today

Whether you're launching a new restaurant or refreshing an existing concept, Matt Woodhouse’s consultancy services provide the expertise and guidance to succeed.

Let’s discuss how we can work together to bring your vision to life.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Matt Woodhouse offers consultancy services for a wide range of hospitality businesses, including:

    • New restaurant, wine bar or café openings

    • Existing restaurants venues looking to refresh their concept or menu

    • Catering businesses and event spaces

    • Hotels or resorts with dining facilities

  • Concept development involves creating a unique and cohesive dining experience that aligns with your brand, target market, and vision. Matt works closely with you to define your restaurant’s venues identity, style, and offerings, ensuring that every detail from the menu to the ambience and service style supports your concept.

  • Matt’s menu consulting focuses on designing a menu that reflects your concept while balancing creativity, operational efficiency, and food cost management. This includes:

    • Developing a menu that’s seasonally relevant and highlights local ingredients.

    • Creating signature dishes that align with your brand and cater to your target audience.

    • Streamlining the menu for kitchen efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

  • Yes, as part of his consultancy, Matt can assist with team development, including training your chefs and kitchen staff. This ensures that your team is aligned with the vision, standards, and operational processes required to execute your menu successfully.

  • The duration of a consultancy project depends on the scale and complexity of the project. A full concept and menu development process typically takes several weeks to months, while smaller updates or menu revisions can be completed more quickly. Matt will work with you to establish a timeline that suits your business needs.

  • Absolutely! Matt’s extensive network of suppliers ensures that you’ll have access to high-quality ingredients, both locally sourced and premium imports. He can also help establish relationships with suppliers who align with your values and your concept.

  • While Matt’s primary focus is on concept development and menu creation, he can offer valuable insight into how your menu, service, and restaurant design should align with your branding and marketing strategy. For more comprehensive marketing support, Matt collaborates with experienced partners to ensure your restaurant stands out.

  • While Matt has a wealth of experience working with new restaurants, wine bars and cafes, he also works with established venues that need a refresh or overhaul. Whether it’s revising a tired menu, repositioning a brand, or improving kitchen operations, Matt’s consultancy services are adaptable to your needs.

  • The cost of consultancy services depends on the scope and complexity of the project. We offer customised packages based on your specific requirements. To discuss your project and receive a tailored quote, please contact us for a consultation.

  • To begin your consultancy journey with Matt, simply reach out through our Contact page. We’ll schedule an initial consultation to discuss your needs, goals, and how we can work together to bring your hospitality vision to life.