Did you always want to be a chef?
I grew up in and around restaurants. My grandfather was a leather maker and my great-grandmother ran a butcher’s shop. Whole carcass cooking and being a chef is in my blood. Initially, I studied English and wanted to be a writer, but my love for produce and the industry pulled me in – and I’ve never looked back.
Why are music and food the perfect combination?
Both are a multi-sensory experience. They evoke passion, nostalgia and emotion. How many stories are based on a good meal or bottle of wine while listening to some of your favourite songs? I’m always cooking with music on; it adds rhythm, speed and poetry. I’m into jazz and classical, both of which pair nicely with cooking. That said, give me something up-tempo or cheesy and I’ll be firing on all cylinders.
What’s the perfect song for cooking at Camille?
‘Stay Hungry’ by Talking Heads. The name says it all, but there’s a fantastic bassline to the song, which perfectly mirrors the hustle and bustle. Camille’s overall vibe can be chalked up to three music genres: classical, soul and punk. It draws on tradition but flips it on its head.
And what about Borough Market?
If Borough Market had a soundtrack, it would be ‘Helter Skelter’ by The Beatles. It’s chaotic and loud but the heart of British culture. There’s so much magic in that busy market.
If your kitchen crew at Camille had an anthem, what would it be?
‘Ca Plane Pour Moi’ by Plastic Bertrand always gets the team going, but, with regret, I must say Blink 182’s ‘I Miss You’ has us all singing (shouting) at each other like it’s karaoke. Dua Lipa is always a big hit too.