CIAO FOR NOW!

After getting us hooked on her flavourful and richly-diverse cooking over the past 17 years, Karen Martini is packing up her knives

Television chefs may have rockstar aura, but it’s easy to forget that these screen stars also have a whole other life. The demands of filming on Karen Martini’s family and business ventures has led to her difficult decision to say goodbye to the Be er Homes and Gardens crew. “I needed to make big changes moving forward,” says the award-winning restaurateur, who is one of the longest-serving presenters on the show. “I just opened two new restaurants – Johnny’s Green Room and Saint George in Melbourne – and I’m also overseeing Thyme at Alba on the Mornington Peninsula.”

The prolific menu curator coordinates at least 60 different dishes a week. “I also have lots of energy to try new things, to try different styles of presenting. It’s important to keep pushing the boundaries. But, first, I need to take a breather.”

In addition, the 52-year-old author of multiple top-selling cookbooks is also a mum. “My daughters are in year 12 and year 10 this year, and it’s crucial I’m there for them at this time.”

Karen’s departure coincides with the show’s milestone 30 years on air. “TV has opened up the world to home cooking, making it look doable. It’s increased the home cook’s confidence. And it’s been great to be a part of this.” Social media and today’s diverse range of food products on the shelf have also contributed to the rising trend of eating in, says the culinarian.

The legacy Karen has le behind at BHG is undeniable, having shared more than 700 recipes, and myriad shortcuts and shopping tips. “I’m deeply thankful for my time on the show and in the magazine. BHG has given me so much – and I’ve enjoyed giving as much in return.”