Revelations: Lorenzo Nigro, head chef at Archway, London

We delve into the life and inner thoughts of a top chef. This week, Lorenzo Nigro, head chef at Archway, London

 

What was your best subject at school?

 

PE and geography

 

What was your first job?

 

In Tuscany, as a commis chef in a restaurant by the sea

 

What do you normally have for breakfast?

 

A cheese and ham croissant is my go-to treat

 

What do you do to relax?

 

I ride by bike on my days off

 

Which is your favourite restaurant?

 

If I had to chose, it’s got to be Franco’s on Jermyn Street. This is the first restaurant I worked in London when I moved six years ago. I started as a commis there and I’ve learned a lot. I also met my fiancée there!

 

What’s your favourite hotel?

 

My parents’ and my grandma’s house when I go back to Italy!

 

What is your favourite drink?

 

I’ve recently discovered white port and tonic water

 

What flavour combinations do you detest?

 

Chicken with pasta is a big no-no for all Italians

 

What do you always carry with you?

 

My bike if I can

 

Which person gave you the greatest inspiration?

 

The women in my family really inspired me to cook and gave me my passion for food

 

Cast away on a desert island, what luxury would you take?

 

Cheese

 

Describe your ultimate nightmare?

 

Missing my flight – I always have to get to the airport super-early, which drives my family crazy

 

Tell us a secret…

 

I’ve tried pineapple on pizza…

 

What irritates you most about the industry?

 

Some people don’t treat the hospitality industry as a career path and so don’t respect it

 

**What’s your favourite book?

 

Taste by Stanley Tucci

 

When did you last eat a hamburger?

 

Two days ago from Honest Burger

 

If you had more time, what would you do?

 

I would love to go on adventures on my bike and spend time in Italy with my family