I don't do social events, I don't do award ceremonies, I don't do charity dinners. I live my life off-radar.

I came from the old world of gastronomy. Many years ago I walked into the kitchens of the Hotel St George and I feel very fortunate that I worked for chefs that were behind their stoves. I saw that world of gastronomy. I can sit here today and say that I saw the golden age of gastronomy. It's gone, it's gone. It's never going to have that anymore, once the accountants get involved the romance fades. That's the reality.

Once you accept you are being judged by people who have less knowledge than yourself, then what's it worth?

I like things that are educational and educational. I like things that are inspirational.

I have no problem in asking a diner to leave for two reasons: 1. If they are rude to my staff. No one has that right. If we make a mistake, allow us to rectify it. 2. If they are loud and abusive at the table. They have no regard or respect for the other diners, who may have worked very hard to save up their cash to afford your prices.

People do peculiar things in life and they do for whatever reason but I think one of the greatest crimes in life is when you lie.

I'm not a worrier. I like sleeping.