HEAD CHEF & CO-OWNER

Born in Seoul, Korea, and lived in Australia for nearly two decades, Chef Rooney Ji brings a rare blend of East-meets-West to the heart of G’day Saigon Cafe & Takeaway. With a Bachelor in Business and Culinary Arts from Griffith University, Gold Coast, Rooney’s roots in modern Aussie cuisine run deep — and his ability to infuse it with refined Asian flair is what sets his food apart.

From luxury resorts to high-end kitchens, Chef Rooney has spent years mastering the craft of balancing flavour, technique, and creativity. His leadership in the kitchen is matched by his quiet confidence and deep respect for ingredients, culture, and culinary excellence.

His love for Vietnamese cuisine began early in his culinary journey, captivated by its bold balance of flavours, fresh herbs, and deep regional diversity. Over the years, that admiration evolved into a deep respect — not just for the ingredients, but for the stories and traditions behind each dish. Vietnamese food, for Rooney, became a way to connect with culture, history, and people. Today, it’s not just something he cooks — it’s something he feels.

Career Highlights

• Sous Chef, Epicurean at Crown Perth (2021-2024)
• Senior Sous Chef, Rottnest Hotel & Resorts (2019–2021)
• Head Chef, West End Deli, West Perth (2018–2019)
• Senior Sous Chef, Vans Café, The Wild Fig, and more

Chef Rooney’s unique culinary lens — shaped by his Korean heritage, Australian upbringing, and fine-dining background — is what makes every dish at G’day Saigon not just a meal, but an experience.

OPERATIONAL MANAGER &  CO-OWNER

Born in Saigon, Vietnam, and moved to Perth since 2014, Chef Kelly Trang brings the heart and soul of Vietnamese cuisine to everything she touches. With a Bachelor in Hotel & Restaurant Management and an Advanced Diploma in Culinary Arts from Bentley, Kelly’s journey in hospitality is grounded in both education and experience — but her true foundation comes from the vibrant food culture she grew up with.

For Kelly, Vietnamese flavour is in her blood. Raised in the heart of Saigon — a city known for its incredible mix of regional cuisines — her earliest memories are filled with the smells, colours, and stories of food shared around the family table. That deep-rooted passion is what fuels her vision at G’day Saigon today.

Career Highlights

• HR Specialist, Sunrise Nha Trang Resorts (2011), HR Department, Sheraton Saigon (2012), Barista- Park Hyatt Saigon (2013),…
• Chef de Parties, Hyatt (2015), Hamptons City Beach (2019) and Hilton Hotels (since 2019), Perth
• American Pub-style Chef, The Merrywell, Crown Perth (2020–2023)
• Japanese Cuisine Chef, Nobu, Crown Perth (2023–2024)
• Hospital Catering Chef, SJOG Subiaco and King Edward Memorial Hospital (since 2024)

From luxury hospitality to elite culinary institutions, Kelly’s path is defined by dedication, adaptability, and creative flair. Her ability to blend traditional Vietnamese tastes with global techniques — especially her precision and discipline from Japanese cuisine — adds a distinctive edge to the G’day Saigon kitchen. In 2025, Kelly made the bold decision to leave her full-time permanent government role offer at KEMH Hospital to fully pursue her dreams.

At G’day Saigon Cafe & Takeaway, Kelly brings not just talent, but identity — ensuring every dish is a celebration of where she comes from, and where she’s going.

HEAD BARISTA

At G’day Saigon Cafe & Takeaway, coffee isn’t just a side offering — it’s a craft, and it deserves just as much attention as the food on our menu. Our Head Barista brings expertise, precision, and passion to every cup, making sure each pour reflects the care and quality G’day Saigon is known for.

With a strong background in specialty coffee and a deep understanding of bean-to-cup techniques, [Name] is a true artisan behind the machine. Whether it’s a silky flat white, a bold long black, or a perfectly balanced pour-over, their focus is always on consistency, flavor, and experience.

Core Skills & Qualities:

• Extensive experience in specialty coffee and high-volume café environments
• Deep knowledge of beans, roasts, and brewing methods
• Artistic flair for latte art and visual presentation
• Friendly, community-focused service approach
• Passion for creating a welcoming and memorable coffee experience

At G’day Saigon, coffee is part of our daily ritual — and [Name] ensures that every cup leaves a lasting impression.