Flash-grilled: Sarah Hayward
What was your first industry job?
I remember getting jealous of my sister when I was 12 as she got her first job as a waitress at a hotel so they agreed to take me on as a KP doing a few shifts a week on the pot wash.
If you weren’t in kitchens, what would you do?
I only ever wanted to be a chef, but if not, I’d like to think it would be something cool like a fire fighter or a paramedic – something that would help people.
What industry figure do you most admire, and why?
Tom Kerridge. He always sees the best in people and presents them with opportunities to grow. He is super down to earth, consistently maintains nothing but the highest standards and will always give you his support and guidance.
What's your pet hate in the kitchen?
When people carry their oven cloth on their shoulder and don’t give you a simple answer. Don’t use too many words – just tell me!
What’s the oddest thing a customer has said to you?
A customer once complained that their peas were too green…
Sum up your cooking style in a single sentence…
Simple, bold and clean flavours that let the food do the talking.
What’s the worst review you’ve ever had?
You will always have customers that complain, it’s pretty much impossible to please everybody. You just have to learn from it.
What advice would you give someone starting out in the industry?
Keep your head down, ask the right questions and work hard.
Which single item of kitchen equipment could you not live without?
I’m pretty attached to our rotisserie oven.
What would you choose to eat for your last meal?
Mum and dad's lasagne, chips and Caesar salad.
What's your favourite fast food joint?
Wagamamas. I have its beef brisket ramen and bang bang cauliflower every time
MasterChef or Great British Menu?
Great British Menu!
What’s your earliest food memory?
We were always really lucky to have home cooked meals growing up. Dad normally had Sundays off work so we would always sit around the family dining table and eat together. I also have a distinct memory of making flapjacks with my granny and sister.
Twitter or Instagram?
I’m all about Instagram.
Tipple of choice?
I'm a big fan of a margarita.
What's your favourite food and drink pairing?
Chip shop fish and chips and champagne.
