What got you into cooking?
Working as a kitchen porter in a small hotel while still in school was what got me into cooking and what made me realise it was what I wanted to do, my family aren't strong cooks, so it was not them.
Why did you choose the gastropub route?
The Oarsman is my first Gastropub, it was a fairly easy decision to make to step into pubs after meeting James and Nigel, the ideas they had and the passion they have for pubs was infectious and was something I wanted to be a part of.
Which country has the best food?
Obviously I have a soft spot for Scottish food, Haggis in particular, but I also really love the French classics, there is something about them that just makes me smile.
What do you enjoy most about your industry?
The freedom to be creative is amazing about our industry, you can do so much in a kitchen and the possibilities are endless, you can learn something new everyday. Also the people you meet, it’s a real mixing pot of people from everywhere and every background.
Where’s your favourite place to eat in the UK?
St Johns, I love the place, everything about it. Its my go to restaurant.
Who’s your biggest influence?
Reading Fergus Hendersons books was a huge inspiration to me, I still love them and pick them up regularly. Others would be chefs I worked with like Anthony Demetre and Bryn Williams, both top chefs and amazing people.
What does being the Top 50 Gastropub Newcomer of the Year mean to you?
It means so much to not only myself but everyone at the Oarsman, its still a bit unbelievable, its an amazing list with outstanding restaurants. It means that much more because it is a list I go to for finding places to go and eat. Its very humbling being in such great company.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Write everything down, take the time to organise everything you’ve learned, your too forgetful.
Best country for food?
Scotland.
Tea or Coffee?
Coffee, Always Coffee. Cant remember the last time I had a cup of tea.
What do you think the future holds for Gastropubs?
I think the future of Gastropubs is looking very strong, for me it’s the most accessible and enjoyable form of eating out. It has so much freedom to do amazing things and you can find a gastropub anywhere! Every town and Village needs a good gastropub.
