Meet the Chef – Daniel Speak – Head Chef at Restaurant 1539, Chester Racecourse #Meet the Chef

Lisa Edwards
20th October 2016

Continuing with our series to find out more about the people who make our food. What makes them tick.

Here are Head Chef, Daniel Speak of Restaurant 1539 at Chester Racecourse answers!

How long have you been a chef?

20 years in the kitchen

Who was your finest mentor?

Robert Price, I spent around 10 years working for/with him and he taught me a lot but always put my best interests first, and even got me my first head chef role.

What is the most valuable lesson you have learnt in the kitchen?

To look after and appreciate the hard working members of your team.

Which chef do you admire most and why?

Aiden Byrne, at only 22 he achieved a Michelin Star, his sheer determination to get through the completion in Great British menu was inspiring.

How would you describe your style of cooking and current menu?

A mixture of classic dishes and modern cooking, with some nostalgic and comforting dishes.

What do you hate most about the Restaurant business?

As most people in the industry find, being a chef means missing time with my family.

What meal do you like cooking most for yourself?

You can’t beat a good full English breakfast.

What is your favourite drink?

Tea (Builder style!).

What car do you drive?

Corsa

What do you do for fun?

I used to play a bit of golf, but this changed a little since I had children.

Married or Single – if married to whom and how long – children?

I’ve been married to Amanda for 4 years, with 2 children (5years old and 19 months old).

Which football team do you support?

Not a football fan

Taste Cheshire are paying – where would you like to go for a meal?

Marcus in Knightsbridge, London

What foods are cool at the moment?

Miso, Dashi stock, Burrata, Beef short rib.

Who is making it happen in the industry at the moment?

For me it’s got to be Michael O’Hare

What are your Favourite Films?

Star Wars, The Crow, Toy Story.

Twitter or Facebook?

Facebook.

How long do you see yourself being a chef?

Forever! I’m hooked.

What’s the secret to a restaurant dish?

The secret is creating dishes that guests want to eat, not just what chefs want to cook.

What annoys you most when you go out for a meal?

Hot food on cold plates, other customers complaining or giving the staff a hard time.