Flash-grilled: Lorenza Pezzetta
What was your first job?
Cocktail waitress at the Blue Bar at the Berkeley Hotel back in 2002.
Why did you want to work in restaurants?
When I joined the Berkeley Hotel, the vibe and energy at Vong restaurant and at The Blue Bar back in the day amazed me and this is when I understood I wanted a career in hospitality.
If you weren’t in the industry, what would you do?
Astrologer.
What industry figure do you most admire, and why?
I have few for different reasons: Agostino Perrone - he brought the bar industry at the same level than fine dining; Paula Fitzherbert - a legend in hospitality, she knows everyone including world famous chefs, hoteliers, singers... the list goes on, her ‘black book’ is a hospitality bible; and Richard Caring - he is the best visionary in luxury hospitality.
Pet hate in the dining room?
Bad lighting. I am obsessed with lighting.
What’s your best tip for keeping calm under pressure during a busy service?
Shot of tequila... Just joking, I think keep it simple and prioritise.
What’s the oddest thing a customer has said to you?
One day I will write a book about it.
What advice would you give someone starting out in the industry?
Work hard, respect people and make the difference.
What’s the best meal you’ve ever eaten in a restaurant?
Black cod at Jean-Georges at The Connaught.
Most overrated food?
Oysters.
What’s your favourite comfort food, post shift?
Tacos and guacamole.
MasterChef or Great British Menu?
MasterChef.
Where do you go when you want to let your hair down?
Chiltern firehouse.
Favourite food and drink pairing?
Pizza and bottle of Pétrus.
What’s your favourite dish to cook at home?
Carbonara.
