Today, we catch up with our head chef, Aidan, who tells us what inspires him and influences his menus in Time Bar & Restaurant
What inspired you to become a chef?
Having an uncle, who is a chef, inspired me young age to learn the culinary skills that I would need as a chef. Watching him successfully manage his own business definitely influenced my career somewhat!
Who or what inspires you in the culinary world and why?
Definitely by keeping an eye on the different food trends and new products available would heavily influence our menus in both our bar and restaurant, Time. I also enjoy seeing and tasting work by other chefs to experience different styles and this gives me great inspiration for our varied menus. I would definitely recommend young chefs to do, it’s certainly a perk of the job!
What is the most exciting part of your job?
The job, as a whole, continuously keeps you on your toes! There are so many aspects to the job, from making sure there is enough of the correct ingredients for the day ahead, managing a high standard of food in the bar and restaurant, to coordinating meals for functions run simultaneously. All these and more makes the day fly by and everyday exciting!
Are there any culinary trends you are wild about right now?
Culinary trends are always interesting, it's amazing what can be done with food and how it is always changing. It's fun to take some of the trends and tweak them to suit the kitchen you’re in at the time. There are obviously some that are just bizarre though.
What’s your favourite go-to ingredient?
A go to ingredient in any kitchen would be herbs and spices, needed in every dish for flavour.
What is the best part of the job?
Working with a great crew is definitely the best part and makes the work easier and flow better. It's a tough job in a kitchen but if you have a good brigade with you it makes everything work better. We have great team here at the Pillo Hotel & Spa which we are very proud of.