Revelations: Elaine Goad, head chef, Ottolenghi Chelsea, London
We delve into the life and inner thoughts of a top chef. This week: Elaine Goad, head chef at Ottolenghi Chelsea in London
What was your best subject at school?
Maths and PE, I played all kinds of sports, from ice hockey to basketball
What was your first job?
I worked in a pizzeria
What was your first job in catering?
With Ottolenghi, as commis chef at Spitalfields, London
What do you normally have for breakfast?
Bread, toast and a coffee
What do you do to relax?
Get a long massage to help with the aches and watch a true crime series
Which is your favourite restaurant?
Too many to mention, but this year it would be Mr Ji in Soho. The vibe gives me nostalgia from when I used to live in Hong Kong
What is your favourite drink?
A fresh mango shake – especially in the Philippines
What is your favourite cuisine?
Middle eastern, Thai and Korean
Which ingredient do you hate the most?
Ketchup!
What do you always carry with you?
Hand cream – the job can be tough on the skin – and my mobile
Which person in catering have you most admired?
Sami Tamimi. I had the privilege of working with him and he taught me so much
Describe your ultimate nightmare?
Going through another pandemic! No more please
What's your favourite film?
Parasite
What is your favourite prepared product?
Belazu's Truffle and Pecorino nut mix – so addictive
Who would be in your "fantasy" brigade?
Definitely Jay Fai of Raan Jay Fai, May Chow of Little Bao HK, Ramael Scully of Scully, Sami Tamimi, Vic Sanchez, my culinary school mentor, and my mom, who always said she's the best cook!
