Flash-grilled: Alex Webb
What was your first industry job?
I was a pot wash at 14 in my local restaurant.
If you weren’t in kitchens, what would you do?
I would have been a gardener or football player.
What industry figure do you most admire, and why?
Jamie Oliver, because he is from my hometown and I have always read his books when I was younger.
What’s your pet hate in the kitchen?
An untidy kitchen - clean kitchen and clean plates of food are a must.
What’s the oddest thing a customer has said to you?
I once got mistaken as Bart from MasterChef.
Sum up your cooking style in a single sentence…
Modern French cookery with British ingredients.
What’s the worst review you’ve ever had?
I only read the good reviews... haha!
What advice would you give someone starting out in the industry?
I would say to always practice, and watch lots of shows and read cooking books, also I love going to food markets.
Which single item of kitchen equipment could you not live without?
Definitely a Thermomix, I love these.
What would you choose to eat for your last meal?
Roasted turbot, caviar and a Champagne sauce, but hopefully not any time soon.
À la carte or tasting menu?
Tasting menu all the way.
What’s the best meal you’ve ever had in a restaurant?
Apart from mine… I would say Paul Ainsworth in Padstow!
What’s your favourite fast food joint?
McDonald’s.
What’s the dish you wish you’d thought of?
Cheese fondue - I love cheese so much!
MasterChef or Great British Menu?
Definitely MasterChef.
What’s the most overrated food?
Pizza or burgers.
You’re restaurant dictator for a day – what would you ban?
Cutlery, and see what happens.
Who would your dream dinner party guests be?
Mark Noble and Hugh Grant.
What’s your earliest food memory?
I remember helping mum and dad for dinner parties, even though I had to sit on the bench.
Twitter or Instagram?
Instagram.
Where do you go when you want to let your hair down?
I watch West Ham play, but not sure my hair gets let down.
What’s your tipple of choice?
I would say my own cider, delicious!
What’s your favourite food or drink pairing?
I love half Coca Cola and half Fanta. Also like having caviar with Pringles.
What do you consider to be your signature dish?
I think at the moment it’s my lobster toast; hopefully it can be a thing.
