THIS MUCH I KNOW
Owner, O’Connell Street Bistro
My first memory as a small child is growing up in a small North Devon village with beautifully long, endless summers without a care in the world and memories of picnics enjoyed near Exmoor with Mum’s pasties, Branston pickle and good English cheddar.
When you first set out, it’s all about proving yourself, whereas as you progress in life it’s more about legacy and what you’ve contributed — the people you’ve helped or influenced along the way. We have employed a lot of great people who have gone on to be successful in their own enterprises and there is a lot of satisfaction in seeing their progress.
I could never forgive deception.
But I must forgive myself for my type A personality; I could be more understanding of others’ deficiencies.
Accolades are always nice to get, as they are an acknowledgement that you’re keeping on trend and in favour — they’re a great motivator for our team.
I think that deep down everyone has a deep desire to please their parents, although the focus of this does change as you get older and more comfortable in your own skin. Probably something deep and psychological in there somewhere.
I was emotionally fragile when I was confronted by our restaurant on fire in late January. It was devastating, but you pick yourself up again because you don’t have any choice. You have to.
If I were a kitchen utensil I’d probably be a wooden spoon, not flashy but solid and good in a crisis.
The perfect dinner company would be friends and family, and would probably incorporate a beach barbecue featuring seafood and fish, accompanied by a large selection of wines.
During the Bistro’s renovations over the last seven months, I became a little bit addicted to The Chase.
Watching the host, Bradley Walsh, lose it on occasions over some of the questions is hilarious and very infectious.
Maybe I am superstitious. I usually err on the side of caution, just to be safe. As a rule, I never take bananas on a boat.
My screen crush is Miss Moneypenny. Everyone needs a Miss Moneypenny.
It’s last orders. My last supper is Mum’s cornish pasties. They are so good she should have gone into business. Failing that, my sister’s bakewell tart.
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