Brian Turner Interview
Brian Turner is one of Britain's most successful and well-known chefs. In his lengthy career as a chef he has cooked in some of the world's most prestigious hotels and restaurants.
In 1986 Brian hit the headlines when he opened his own restaurant 'Turner's', in Walton Street, Knightsbridge, which immediately attracted a regular clientele of local residents as well as a devoted international following who appreciated the degree of personal attention to both food, service and customers. 'Turner's was able to set new standards for the British chef-owned restaurants that have become a feature of dining out in London.
More recently Brian launched his new stand alone London restaurant 'Brian Turner Mayfair' at the Millennium Hotel, in London's Mayfair. The restaurant serves modern British food, which has made Turner such a favourite with the culinary establishment and the public at large.
Brian has also been able to pursue a successful career in television appearing regularly on BBC's popular series 'Ready Steady Cook'. Despite a hectic television schedule Turner still spent the equivalent of a full working week at the restaurant personally meeting and greeting his customers.
Now at the peak of his profession, Brian is regularly invited to be 'guest chef' at leading hotels around the world where his expertise is in great demand as a judge for national and international cookery competitions.
What is your most memorable childhood 'food' memory?
My mum's cheese and potato pie.
What's your favourite food or ingredient 'on your doorstep'?
Fish and chips cooked the 'Yorkshire' way.
What is your favourite food secret?
Late night cheeseburgers on Chelsea Bridge.
What food would you travel for (within the UK)?
As you can see, I am a huge fan of great British fish and believe that some of the best fish and chips can be found in my home county of Yorkshire.
What is your favourite seasonal food?
English strawberries in the Summer. You can't beat them for their taste.
What is your favourite local food shop?
Sally Clarke's Bread Shop. Sally is one of our leading restaurateurs and knows how to bake the perfect loaf of bread. Her shop and restaurant are located in London's Notting Hill. One of Sally's tips for good bread is – the wetter the dough – the better the dough, which is good advice.
What is your favourite eating place?
Champany Inn, Linlithgow, Scotland.
What is your favourite UK pub?
The Beetle & Wedge, Movisford-on-Thames.
What is your favourite dish or recipe?
Roast Rib of English Beef with Yorkshire pudding.
Name an inspirational food person? Why?
George Perry-Smith – who started gas cooking in the UK.