“Sisu is a little eatery which is a combination of what we love: good food, wine, and beer. ”
We are still the same two people on the mission that we started in November 2022 to bring something different to Picton. Honest approach to food and booze, and attentive service without too much fluff.
Our focus is on sharing food, good times, and stories in a laid-back environment. For lunch, dinner or a cheeky drink, you’re welcome just as you are. We use as much of local and New Zealand produce as possible. Food is seasonal small plates made with quality ingredients and they are designed to share. Our wine list is focused on small New Zealand producers, largely supporting our own region, Marlborough. We always have three beers on tap (two from Sawmill) and a selection of New Zealand Gins.
So, who are we?
Stefan is the face you may have seen running around the restaurant. He’s background is in wine. He studied winemaking and travelled around to do vintages in multiple countries and worked in hospitality on the side, gaining more than 10 years of experience on both jobs. Inkeri you don’t see as often as she’s hiding in the kitchen. She studied to be a Chef in Finland and lived in Norway before coming to New Zealand. Cooking is all she’s ever done and has worked in the industry for over 15 years after graduating.
Ever since we met here in Marlborough in 2016, we've had "discussions" about what kind of hospitality place we would like and how we would run it. Sisu is one of those hypothetical arguments turned into a reality. Just a cool little place where we would love to go to ourselves.
SISU
A Finnish concept described as stoic determination, tenacity of purpose, bravery, resilience, and hardiness. It is held by Finns themselves to express their national character.
Our description of Sisu is an extraordinary determination and courage in the face of extreme adversity; or like Stefan says: "persistently stubborn against all odds".
We went against all odds opening a new completely different type of place in Picton, so the name is very fitting. The hospitality industry still faces a lot of struggles every day, but we carry on by using all of our Sisu spirit and focusing on the positives. Originally, we thought about the name years ago as I was telling Stefan about the meaning of Sisu when a photo popped up of Finnish people sitting out on the restaurant terrace drinking beer in the rain. It was taken on a summer day, which obviously meant that you had to sit outside.
That's basically Sisu in action.