I was born in Pembury, Kent on May 23rd, 1960. You could say that I was almost born in the kitchen as my mother went into labor whilst helping my father at work in his restaurant. All my childhood was spent in or around food and it was only normal for me to become a chef. At 16, I started an apprenticeship with Maître Pâtissier Henri Hellegouarch, a pastry shop in Paris, followed by two years in the kitchens of Alain Chapel in Mionnay. My food is true to its roots of French Classic but also Cuisine Bourgeoise, respect and love of the finest ingredients with seasonality playing a major part on the menu.
For inspiration, I run marathons. It’s my hobby. I ran London in April, 2008, then again April, 2009. Best time: three hours and 31 minutes. I also ran Paris, New York, Tromso, Médoc, Monaco, and the 100 kilometers de Belvès in France. It helps to keep me fit, mentally stable, and above all it makes me hungry!
United Kingdom
