Fife foodie

Barry Bryson grew up in Fife and is one of Scotland’s leading caterers and private chefs, heading up Cater Edinburgh

Leading chef Barry Bryson shares his favourite food, music, dream dinner guests and proud moments

What’s on your iPod?

I’m an ‘80s kid so Human league, Depeche Mode, Madonna or any modern stuff that’s influenced by these people.

What music do you cook to?

I love music but I need to concentrate on it 100% so I tend to cook without music so I can focus on the food.

Your house is on fire, what one item do you save?

My miniature Schnauzer poodle, Vera, and then my CDs and books.

Theme song for your life?

Ray of Light by Madonna.

Last meal on earth?

Crab lasagne at The Pompadour in Edinburgh.

What are you proudest of?

Growing from a small food business and establishing a strong identity.

Dream dinner party guests?

US chef Anthony Bordain, Raymond Blanc, Justin Trudeau, plus lots of my female friends because they’re fun.

First thing you’d do if you won £1 million?

It sounds very dull but I’d probably invest it back into the business.

What would be your superhero power/name?

Because of the speed I need to move at between venues, it would be being able to fly.

Quiet night in or big night out?

I get the odd night out but you’ll generally find me in the kitchen.

City break or weekend in the country?

I travel to eat and there’s a broader range in the cities.

Early bird or night owl?

Early bird. What keeps you awake at night? Planning menus.

Couch potato or fitness fanatic?

I’m very active. I exercise, walk the dog, work for 12-15 hours. If I’m lucky I’ll get half an hour to sit down. I walk past my sofa and think: “That’s a nice sofa.”

Home or abroad?

Home. I grew up in the East Neuk of Fife, so I love it there, and I also adore the Isle of Arran.

Rebel rebel or teacher’s pet?

Bit of a rebel – it took the kitchen to discipline me.

Early or late?

I am probably the most punctual person you’ll ever meet – I have to be in my job.

Cats or dogs?

Dogs but I’m a sneaky cat lover too.

Sweet or savoury?

That’s hard – savoury.

Happiest memory?

My wedding day on a beach on Arran.

And most embarrassing?

There are hundreds but the time I left the handbrake off in my car and it rolled downhill sticks in my mind.

Biggest regret?

I’m fairly philosophical and tend to move on quickly. But when you lose a parent there are conversations you wish you could have.

Who do you admire most?

So many people, for different reasons.

And who do you detest?

That’s a strong word but, like most people, I have a real problem with Donald Trump.

Who would you like to thank?

My mum for teaching me how to cook, and my partner for helping me sort out my life.

What three words would your best friend use to describe you?

Generous, humorous, loyal.

Where would you rather be right now? I’m pretty happy where I am

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is one of Barry’s dream dinner party guests.