George Buckley, head chef at the Tintagel Brewery Bar & Bistro answers our questions.
What first inspired you to become a chef?
The ‘curse’ or the obsession began when I was 11 when my dad asked me to become his kitchen porter in his restaurant. At the age of 14 I was working as a commis chef after school, and at weekends. I used to watch Marco Pierre White’s ‘Marco’ (a 1980’s cooking series) so much so that I knew then that I wanted to pursue a career in cooking. A huge inspiration of my love of cooking was also my father’s passion for food, and his constant encouragement and great advice.
What is your proudest career moment?
The recent ‘AA’ Rosette was without a doubt the greatest achievement I have had so far, even though many chefs have achieved much more, it felt like it had confirmed what I thought I knew about food. This recent achievement has acted as a catalyst for our team to trust in our palette and push ourselves much further.
Tell us about your signature dish
Cod, salsify, crab, herb crumb, pistachios with a crab sauce split with a basil oil.
Where is your favourite place to eat in Cornwall?
I do love going down to Port Isaac, anywhere with fresh local seafood.
What is your favourite meal to cook at home?
After a long day at work, I’d much rather sit down with a bowl of pesto pasta, chicken and of course cheese! Nothing fancy, no thrills, just comfort food.
What is your culinary guilty pleasure?
Dominos.
What is your favourite Cornish delicacy?
Without a doubt, Tintagel Brewery Real Ale, brewed next door to us onsite of the Bar & Bistro.
Tintagel Brewery Bar & Bistro, Brewery Condolden Farm, Tintagel PL34 0HJ
tintagelbrewerybarandbistro.co.uk
