Chef revelations: Barry Vera
The director of culinary and purchasing at the One Group reveals his likes and dislikes
What was your first job?
I grew up in a pub, so I used to restock the bottle fridges and shelves for my dad
What was your first job in catering?
Which is your favourite restaurant?
Roka
What is your favourite food?
Asian food - Vietnamese food and street food from places such as Hong Kong
What's your favourite hotel?
Gritti Palace in Venice
How would you describe your desk?
It's too tidy - I hate it when things are out of place
Which person in catering have you most admired?
Raymond Blanc - Le Manoir is a wonderful place
Which person gave you the greatest inspiration?
Marco Pierre White. When I worked for him it taught me about true attention to detail, which has stuck with me.
If not yourself, who would you rather have been?
A Hollywood actor
If you had not gone into catering, where do you think you would be now?
I originally wanted to be a lawyer
What's your ultimate nightmare?
Turning up for service and there are no chefs - it happened once!
Tell us a secret…
I'm a surfer
When did you last eat a hamburger?
About two weeks ago at Dirty Burger in Kentish Town
What's your favourite film?
Shawshank Redemption
Who would play you in a film about your life?
Jude Law
What's your favourite book?
McGee on Food and Cooking: An Encyclopedia of Kitchen Science, History and Culture by Harold McGee
What is your favourite prepared product?
Peeled garlic
If you had more time, what would you do?
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