‘There’s always a time limit’: Otto Brisbane to lose star chef

Sydney Morning Herald

by Matt Shea

February 20, 2026

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‘There’s always a time limit’: Otto Brisbane to lose star chef

The upmarket riverside restaurant Otto Brisbane will bid farewell to its founding head chef, Will Cowper, after over a decade of leadership. Cowper, who has been at the helm since 2016, announced his departure in March, with his last service set for March 28. His replacement is Richard Ptacnik, the former head chef at Otto Sydney, who will oversee both restaurants while maintaining their signature dishes and culinary standards. This transition marks a seamless handover, ensuring continuity for diners. Cowper’s tenure has been instrumental in shaping Brisbane’s food scene, particularly in advocating for higher-quality local produce. He played a key role in pushing suppliers to evolve, especially in the seafood industry, which had historically bypassed Brisbane for larger markets like Sydney and Melbourne. His efforts highlighted the city’s growing demand for premium ingredients and set a new benchmark for culinary excellence. Ptacnik, known for his experience at Otto Sydney, will bring his own expertise while integrating Cowper’s legacy. He plans to work closely with local farmers and fishers in Brisbane, leveraging the region’s abundant produce. Ptacnik’s weekly commutes between the two cities underscore his commitment to maintaining the high standards established during Cowper’s reign. This change reflects the dynamic nature

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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/20/2026