Celebrity chef of the month
Celebrity chef and restaurateur Paul Heathcote has had several reasons to celebrate recently. His Spanish-themed Grado restaurant won the gong for Best Wine List at the 2008 Manchester Food & Drink Awards, while his London Road eaterie in Alderley Edge is becoming increasingly popular with footballers, TV stars and wonder-WAGs including Coleen Rooney, Alex Curran and Sheree Murphy. Find out more at www.heathcotes.co.uk.
What first inspired you to become a chef?
I always wanted to cook from an early age - so to be able to do it for a living, rather than a hobby, is an absolute dream come true.
What other celebrity chef do you most admire - and why?
I've always been inspired by Raymond Blanc: his enthusiasm for all he does is infectious. Even all the years I spent working with him couldn't dampen that enthusiasm.
Which career achievement are you most proud of - and do you have any regrets?
Receiving two Michelin stars. However, being awarded the Catey Newcomer of the Year in 1992 was like being discovered for the first time. Being recognised for hard work is always a great thing. As for regrets, I don't do them. I try to look at them as experiences to learn from, so I can continuously improve myself and my businesses.
What's your idea of food heaven and hell?
Food heaven would be grilled fish and seafood, with a glass of exceptional Burgundy, sunshine and good company. I've yet to meet my food hell, but I'm sure it will come in the form of a Pot Noodle.
What advice would you offer to busy women who say they don't have time to cook?
There is really no excuse: it takes no time at all to cook an egg and fry a steak or piece of fish. There are loads of quick, simple and tasty recipes out there - and it's just a case of making a little effort. It takes as much time to whip up a healthy meal as it does to order a takeaway or go to a supermarket for a ready meal.
What's your favourite chocolate recipe?
Bitter chocolate tart - perfection!
