In this episode of the Chef Life podcast, host Lee Cooper speaks with Chef Deepak Malya, head chef at the Ritz London. They discuss Deepak's unexpected journey into the culinary world, the importance of structure and precision in high-volume kitchens, and the significance of the brigade system in fostering career growth. Deepak shares insights on leadership styles, the balance between innovation and classical techniques, and the ongoing debate between tasting menus and a la carte options. The conversation also touches on staffing challenges in the hospitality industry, the vital collaboration between front and back of house, and the standards set by iconic establishments like the Ritz. Deepak offers valuable advice for young chefs and reflects on the evolving perception of hospitality in modern dining.

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Lee Cooper speaks with Andrew Turvil about his book 'Blood Sweat and Asparagus Spears', which explores the transformative decade of the 1990s in the UK restaurant scene. They discuss the evolution of dining culture, the impact of celebrity chefs, iconic dishes, and the economic and regulatory changes that shaped the industry. The conversation also touches on the role of media in food culture and the legacy of the 90s that continues to influence modern culinary practices.

Takeaways

The 1990s marked a significant shift in the UK dining culture.

Culinary influences from French cuisine began to blend with British flavors.

The rise of celebrity chefs changed public perceptions of cooking.

Iconic dishes from the 90s still influence modern menus today.

The casual dining trend made eating out more accessible to the public.

Media exposure helped demystify the culinary world for the masses.

Economic challenges in the early 90s shaped the restaurant landscape.

The pub culture evolved significantly during the 90s.

Social media has transformed how chefs and restaurants connect with audiences.

The legacy of the 90s continues to inspire new generations of chefs.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Andrew Turville and His Work

02:50 The 1990s Restaurant Revolution

06:44 Culinary Influences and Changes in Dining Culture

10:02 Iconic Dishes and Their Legacy

13:28 The Evolution of Gastronomy and Chef Culture

16:04 Media's Role in Shaping Culinary Trends

21:52 Economic and Regulatory Changes in the 90s

29:17 The Evolution of Food Culture

31:44 Casual Dining vs. High-End Restaurants

36:19 Celebrity Chefs and Their Influence

37:36 The Impact of Social Media on Dining

40:45 Nostalgia for the 90s Food Scene

43:47 The Legacy of the 90s in Today's Dining

46:37 Looking Ahead: Future of Food Culture

48:15 NEWCHAPTER

48:20 Introduction to the Raffle and Charity Initiative

49:00 Introduction to Barrett Boards

49:32 Craftsmanship and Quality in Kitchenware

Keywords

Barrett Boards, Andrew Turvil, Blood Sweat and Asparagus Spears, 1990s restaurant revolution, culinary influences, iconic dishes, chef culture, media influence, economic changes, casual dining, high-end dining

Summary

In this episode of the Chef Life podcast, host Lee Cooper speaks with Mark Haywood of Dingley Dell Pork about the journey of establishing a sustainable pork brand that prioritizes taste, animal welfare, and environmental responsibility. They discuss the challenges faced by farmers, the importance of provenance in food, and the evolving relationship between chefs and farmers. Mark shares insights into the science of taste, the significance of biodiversity in farming, and the future of the pork industry. The conversation highlights the need for chefs to advocate for quality ingredients and the importance of community engagement in supporting local agriculture.

This episode sponsored by Braydeston knives if you go to the website www.Braydestonknives.co.uk and use the voucher code CHEFLIFE for 15% off

Summary

In this episode, Lee Cooper discusses the current state of the hospitality industry, focusing on the alarming rate of pub closures in the UK due to rising costs. He highlights the need for innovation, such as repurposing empty office spaces into nightlife venues, and emphasizes the importance of sustainability and technology in the industry. Lee encourages chefs and operators to adapt and reinvent themselves in the face of challenges, while also supporting local producers and embracing new trends like takeaway and delivery.

Takeaways

Pubs are closing rapidly in the UK due to rising costs.

Independent businesses are struggling alongside national chains.

Innovative ideas are needed to repurpose empty spaces.

Sustainability is essential for the future of hospitality.

Technology is becoming integral to operational efficiency.

Local producers should be supported to enhance food quality.

Takeaway and delivery services are on the rise again.

Chefs must control waste and energy usage in kitchens.

The industry needs to evolve and adapt to new trends.

Reinvention is crucial for survival in the hospitality sector.

Episode Title: From Chester to Caistor – The Journey of Mark Poynton

In this episode of the Cheflife Podcast, Lee sits down with acclaimed chef Mark Poynton to explore the milestones of his impressive culinary journey. From his early days in Chester to formative years at the legendary Midsummer House, Mark shares candid insights into the pressures and triumphs that shaped his path.

He reflects on launching Restaurant Alimentum, building a name for himself in the competitive Cambridge dining scene, and the evolution that led to his latest ventures — the intimate Restaurant MJP and the ambitious new project Mark Poynton at Caistor Hall, nestled near Norwich.

Expect honest stories, a deep dive into the highs and lows of running kitchens, and a glimpse into how Mark continues to push boundaries while staying rooted in his passion for great food.

https://www.mjprestaurant.com

https://www.mjpatcaistorhall.co.uk

Instagram @markjpoynton

If you or someone you know in the hospitality industry is struggling and needs professional support, please reach out to The Burnt Chef Project — they’re here to help with free, confidential mental health resources.

https://www.theburntchefproject.com

New Beginnings with Carl Newey | The Story We All Tell

In this episode of The Cheflife Podcast, I’m joined for the first time by Carl Newey — and it won’t be the last. Carl steps in not just as a guest, but as the new co-presenter of the show. We dive into his culinary journey, the highs and lows of life in the kitchen, and his important ambassadorial role with The Burnt Chef Project. Carl opens up about the story so many chefs carry — the unspoken struggles behind the pass — and why it’s time we keep talking about it. This one marks the beginning of a new chapter for the podcast, and you won’t want to miss it.

In this solo episode of Cheflife, host Lee Cooper takes a deep dive into the origins and evolution of kitchen hierarchy—from the rigid structure of Escoffier’s brigade system to the boundary-breaking kitchens of Ferran Adrià, Noma, and Asma Khan. With over two decades in the industry, Lee brings personal stories and hard-earned insight to explore how leadership, structure, and culture have changed in the modern kitchen. Whether you’re a line cook, head chef, or industry vet, this episode challenges you to rethink how your kitchen operates—and who it serves.

Kitchen lingo, What is it? Secret code for chefs