The way you spoke about food made me jealous. I almost wanted to taste the words as they fell from your mouth as they sounded so sweet. You moved with rhythm and held yourself with humble strength.
With such flare and coolness you slide down spiral staircases. Jumped on a vesper and zigzagged your way to the markets. I was hooked, in love and forever inspired.
I was 14 when you first came into my life. Not yet sure what my path for the future was meant to be, Nor had i even contemplated what i was to be when i grew up.
That was until you came along.
The colours, ingredients and your passion drew me in and in that moment i knew.
I was going to be a Chef
I remember it came as a shock to most as id never shown any interest in food up to this point. But i was encouraged with my dad buying me my very first uniform for Christmas.
And so began my love affair with you and food. This was never a school girl crush or even a fan club lust. This love was admiration. I aspired to be like you and a fellow peer. I wanted to love food as much as you did, if not more. And i knew i would have to work hard to get there.
I would get your books every Christmas and every birthday. They where my bibles and over the years i would always use them to inspire new menus or ideas.
Many great chefs have said never to copy but make it your own. Something i have always strived to do.
15yrs later i find myself being nostalgic on those moments of first seeing you.
I sift through my memories to see if I was as passionate, kind, fun and humble as you. Just like you zigzagging through the streets of London I have had to navigate my own traits as a chef and climb the very steep stairs of leadership.
Thank you for your inspiration, excitement, passion and love of food.
I am still inspired by you.
Desires of a chef 