Revelations: Lydia Taylor, head chef/co-owner, Tides Kitchen & Wine Bar, Pembrokeshire
We delve into the life and inner thoughts of a top chef. This week: Lydia Taylor
What was your first job?
Working with my sister at a hairdressers, washing hair and sweeping up
What was your first job in catering?
The Wentwood Inn in Caldicot, starting as a waitress, then pot wash then chef de partie
What is your favourite restaurant?
Paul Ainsworth at Number 6 in Padstow. I've been three times over the past couple of years. It just gets better and better. Paul has a great team
What do you normally have for breakfast?
Two very strong coffees
What do you do to relax?
Meet up with good friends for pints in the sunshine
What is your favourite food?
I'm lucky enough to have travelled quite a bit and I was amazed by the food in Mexico
Are there any foods/ingredients that you refuse to cook with? If so, why?
Unsustainable and intensively farmed produce. We are very lucky in Pembrokeshire to have amazing produce on our doorstep with producers who are passionate about their products
What do you always carry with you?
A lighter, as every chef knows that not being able to light the gas tops in the middle of service is a nightmare
Which person in catering have you most admired?
Claire Smyth, she is at the top of the hospitality industry and her food looks insane
Describe your ultimate nightmare?
Someone eating my food and hating it
When and where was your last holiday?
Eating my way around Padstow last November
Whats your favourite drink?
An ice-cold pint of lager or a nice glass of Pouilly-Fumé
Tell us a secret
I'm petrified of frogs and toads
What's your favourite film?
Shawshank Redemption
Who would play "you" in a film about your life?
Melissa McCarthy – she's really funny
Who would be in your "fantasy" brigade?
I already have my dream brigade with my sous Ben Woods
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