Favorite Chefs: : Jordan Sclare – Executive Chef of Chotto Matte London. Ex – Nobu, Buddha Bar, Gordon Ramsay & The Savoy. One of the most creative people I have met, now serving Japanese/Peruvian cuisine in Soho London.
Favorite Cooking show: Jamie’s Comfort Food – Jamie Oliver
Favorite Cookbook: Sydney Food, Bill Granger. Being Australian, I can’t help to favor my part of the world.
What experience most defined your decision and desire to get into the food industry?
Like many people; my parents. Growing up in Australia, from Greek parents who owned cafes, I was always influenced by food and the hospitality industry. I then had the urge to continue my passion by working in the kitchen as a chef and later moving my way into the front of house, whilst continuing my studies in the industry.
Where’s your favorite place to shop for food and ingredients in Kuwait?
Having only been in Kuwait for a short time, I am still finding my feet and continuing my search for places to shop. Although, having a background as a Chef, I am always considering freshness and authenticity and you will find me scouring through local markets on a regular basis.
What food most reminds you of your mother’s house, and why?
Actually, living in Kuwait gives me a sense of being home. There are many influences of what I am accustomed to eating at home from my very Greek mother, which I can experience here in Kuwait and across the region. But to select one dish, and my absolute favorite, I have to say Youvetsi – Greek lamb stew with orzo. You must look it up and try…
When you want to go somewhere else to eat, where do you go and why?
I enjoy the casual approach and prefer a homely environment. Spending the last two years in London, I have been enjoying the small hole-in-the-wall restaurants, who do not over deliver in design or location, but focus in on quality and freshness. I really enjoy Dikakeen in Salhia Complex on M2 for that reason.
Who in the world would you most like to cook for?
It would definitely not be a chef, as I would be afraid to disappoint. I would have to say Richard Branson, to take the opportunity to meet him and discus the secrets to becoming such a successful businessman, entrepreneur and adventurer. I am sure I would have a lot to learn from such a mind.
If you were to leave Kuwait and could take only one kitchen gadget with you, what would it be?
If we could call Chef Samaan (Culinary Creative Development & Production Director MMC/Le Notre) a gadget. I will definitely take him.
