I was reminded recently - sadly on the news of Gary Rhodes death following an accident - of a Christmas meal that Chris Jackson and I had at Rhodes in the City - probably about 2001. An excellent Steak and Kidney pudding washed down with more than a couple of bottles of a very drinkable Ribera del Duero. However we were mildly disappointed to discover that 'Chef' was not in the kitchen that day 'due to other responsibilities'.
Had a similar disappointment this evening at Cafe San Juan when we were told as we sat down that unfortunately the local celebrity chef - Leandro Cristobal - was cooking at his other restaurant - Cantina San Juan. The food and the service were still excellent but none of the 'signature ' dishes were available. Given the trip that we are about to start, it seemed appropriate that their wine was served in jugs called 'pinguino'
I've had the good fortune - thanks mainly to clients with good taste and deep pockets - to meet a number of Chefs over the years and I understand that there will always be 'other responsibilities' which take them away from the kitchen but it doesn't detract from the disappointment. I remember Marco Pierre White explaining to us - over a glass or two - that he was no longer a chef but had become a restuarateur.
I've had the good fortune - thanks mainly to clients with good taste and deep pockets - to meet a number of Chefs over the years and I understand that there will always be 'other responsibilities' which take them away from the kitchen but it doesn't detract from the disappointment. I remember Marco Pierre White explaining to us - over a glass or two - that he was no longer a chef but had become a restuarateur.
The wine decanter is rather interesting. Hope the food on the boat is better.
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