The Michelin-starred executive chef and owner at Restaurant Story and The Lickfold Inn on his inspirations, music and getting a rare day off work
Who is your role model?
I take inspiration from a lot of people – leaders mostly, a lot of them in sport. Alex Ferguson is hugely inspiring. Also the chefs who have mentored me – I have learned a lot from their styles in order to form my own.
What ingredient can you not live without?
Salt – it elevates each layer of flavour when you cook. I can measure a cook by the way I see them season a dish.
What item, apart from your passport, can you not travel without?
My phone – it is how I conduct my business. I don’t even have a laptop – the whole thing would go down without my phone!
Where is your favourite place to eat in London?
The Ledbury – it’s flawless. A very special place for me.
What do you like to do on a day off?
I don’t get many! But I always make time to walk my dogs and I try to relax. It’s not always easy, obviously.
Apart from food, what are your biggest passions?
Music. It guides my every day, from the music I listen to on my way to work to songs that remind me of certain times in my life and people.
If you could choose anyone from today or history, who would be your ideal dinner party guest and why?
Dr Dre – he’s a truly inspirational businessman and creative mind
