Flash-grilled: Liz Reece
What was your first job?
Working in a chemist scraping the labels off old medicine bottles so they could be recycled.
Why did you want to work in restaurants?
I have always liked entertaining people, so it’s like having a party every day just not in your own house.
If you weren’t in the industry, what would you do?
I wanted to be an actress but then I got real! Deep down I still think about it.
What industry figure do you most admire, and why?
Jay Rayner. He has integrity and a fantastic sense of humour.
Pet hate in the dining room?
People who leave their napkin on their plate. I mean for goodness sake.
What’s your best tip for keeping calm under pressure during a busy service?
Prioritise and keep breathing.
What’s the oddest thing a customer has said to you?
"The receptionists shoes are too loud."
What’s the best meal you’ve ever eaten in a restaurant?
Daphne’s in South Kensington. I will never forget their courgette fritters.
Most overrated food?
Truffle.
What’s your favourite comfort food, post shift?
Potato cakes
MasterChef or Great British Menu?
MasterChef because I was on it once and had a really lovely free lunch.
If you could serve anyone, who would it be and why?
The actor Dave Morrisey, I have had a crush on him since I was thirteen.
What’s your earliest food memory?
My mum’s mince beef pie.
What’s the closest you’ve ever come to death?
White water rafting in Turkey.
Where do you go when you want to let your hair down?
Ronnie Scott's night club.
Tipple of choice?
Crofts original sherry... don’t laugh.
Favourite food and drink pairing?
Heineken and salt and vinegar crisps.
What advice would you give someone starting out in the industry?
Every day will be full of surprises, and you will be surrounded by great people from all walks of life.
