CELEBRITY CONCIERGE • February 2016
A word with… Ollie Dabbous
The Kuwait-born chef has worked under such distinguished names as Guy Savoy, Raymond Blanc and Heston Blumenthal – but it was the 2012 London opening of his first solo venture, Dabbous, that propelled him into the limelight. He has since opened a second restaurant in the capital, Barnyard, and is the author of Dabbous: The Cookbook
What’s your most memorable travel experience?
Travelling across India, from Kerala to Goa and Rajasthan. I went with two friends, and not much money, a long time ago. I can’t think of anywhere remotely comparable in terms of colour and noise. I needed another holiday at the end of the trip.
Where do you love going back to?
New York is always fun. I have a few friends out there who take me to their favourite spots. Cities are always better the more you get to know them.
Where in the world do you enjoy eating?
I had a great meal at Trattoria Cammillo in Florence. It’s everything you want in a neighbourhood Italian restaurant when on holiday: incredible produce and no-frills cooking.
Which country’s food has most inspired you?
I like Italy and Greece for the simplicity of cooking and quality of produce. I admire Japan for the finesse and purity of flavour.
What’s the most memorable hotel you’ve stayed in?
The Inn on the Lake, just outside Amsterdam. It has lovely rooms, generous breakfasts, friendly hosts and a dog called Basil.
One of Ollie’s London favourites: the Dean Street Townhouse restaurant
Where are your foodie hotspots in London?
It depends on my mood, but Tayyabs, Rules, Dean Street Townhouse, Chiltern Firehouse and Umu are my usual ‘go-to’ places.
If you had to relocate outside the UK, where would you go?
Melbourne. It has diversity, great parks, a coastline and fantastic restaurants. I lived and worked there in St Kilda for a while after I left school, and absolutely loved it.
Top three packing essentials?
I travel light, and rarely pack anything I don’t mind losing. So, passport aside, I take an eye mask, a thick jumper and socks, so I can get some sleep on the flight.
How do you escape the crowds in London?
I usually visit friends in Oxfordshire when I want to get away. It’s very quick and easy to get to from my home in Marylebone. Otherwise, it’s my bathtub.
Interview by Paul Joseph
This article has been tagged Food + Drink, Opinion