Revelations: George Farrugia, Fenchurch Restaurant

What was your best subject at school?

 

English literature – I was a real geek. I loved reading and was most interested in anthologies

 

**What was your first job? **

 

Working with my dad in construction

 

What was your first job in catering?

 

Working at a Greek/Cypriot restaurant in Manchester called Papa G’s

 

What do you normally have for breakfast?

 

Weetabix or porridge with honey and fresh bananas

 

What do you do to relax?

 

I like to spend my days off with my fiancée and daughter, and socialising with friends. When it’s just me I like to go river fishing – the low rivers in the countryside around Cheshire are best

 

Which is your favourite restaurant?

 

Brasserie Chavot. I spent four years working with Éric Chavot and I used to eat there before I was hired. I’m very grateful to the experience he gave me and my time spent there

 

**What’s your favourite hotel? **

 

The Connaught in London’s Mayfair, because of its history and classic English charm

 

What is your favourite food/cuisine?

 

I may be biased, but I would have to say Mediterranean food. To me, nothing competes with the fresh flavours, ingredients and simplicity the cuisine of these countries offer. However, a close second would be English food – you can’t beat an English breakfast!

 

**Which ingredient do you hate the most? **

 

Kohlrabi, it tastes of nothing

 

What flavour combinations do you detest?

 

I’m Cypriot – we eat everything!

 

**What do you always carry with you? **

 

Wireless Apple headphones

 

**How would you describe your desk? **

 

Super-organised and very clean with everything in its place

 

**Which person gave you the greatest inspiration? **

 

I would say my dad. His sheer drive and determination in everything he does is very inspiring

 

Describe your ultimate nightmare?

 

Ironically, I’m scared of heights, but working on the 37th floor of Sky Garden I quickly had to overcome that!