PROFILE
DAVID BUKOWICKI EXECUTIVE HEAD CHEF OF BARNSDALE LODGE At 35 years old David Bukowicki, Executive Head Chef of Barnsdale Lodge has an exceptional food knowledge. Having travelled the world as a chef, Deborah Pennell takes time to meet him, as he comes home to roost, close to the shores of Rutland Water. Tell me a little bit about yourself? I’m originally from inner city Leeds but these days I live with my partner near Mansfield. We are currently looking to relocate to this area but are struggling to find the ‘perfect’ house. At the moment I am making the journey every day; this doesn’t phase me, but it is quite tiring. Where did you train to become a chef? I trained whilst working in different kitchens around the UK and the world. I started work as a kitchen porter at 14 years old and really enjoyed the kitchen environment, so decided I would like to progress into the world of becoming a chef. I gained my Level 2 NVQ whilst on a work placement, but mostly my experience has come from working with exceptional people. What jobs have you had since working as a Chef? I have had a great variety of jobs since deciding to become a chef. I travelled the world, picking up chef jobs as I went, in order to earn some money. I suppose the most notable places I have worked are, The Square in London which is a Michelin 2* restaurant, The Devonshire Arms nr Bolton Abbey and Pool Court in Leeds which also has a Michelin star. In Australia I had my most varied jobs, everything from working in a restaurant in a mining town, to contract catering for railway workers in the Outback. How did you hear about the job vacancy at Barnsdale Lodge? I was in the process of looking for a new job and Barnsdale Lodge was advertised through a catering agency. Who are your influences when it comes to Chefs? I would always champion Jeff Baker at Pool Court and Philip Howard from The Square in London, they both taught be so much, but generally I have loads of my own ideas picked up during my travels, and I transport them to the plate. Have you ever cooked for anyone famous? At Pool Court we catered for all the functions
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at Castle Howard. I know there have been many Heads of State and definitely Prince Andrew on one occasion. Others include Mark Webber, The Formula One driver. Film Director, Oliver Stone and actor Tim Robbins. I’m not sure if it was as a result of my food, but I cooked for cricketers Kevin Petersen and Andrew Strauss on two consecutive evenings and they both went on to score a 100 the next day! Give me an interesting fact about the kitchens at Barnsdale Lodge We really do champion local produce – our trout is delivered fresh from Rutland Water and filleted in the kitchens here; and Game comes from an Estate 10 minutes up the road. You run a very busy kitchen here at Barnsdale Lodge, with so many function rooms, dining rooms and areas to eat. How many staff do you have helping you? At present I have 9 chefs and 3 kitchen porters who all work very hard to achieve our success. How often do you change the menu? We change the menu with the seasons so Spring, Summer, and Winter but always have specials on, and add and takeaway dishes all the time. If you could choose your favourite dish what would it be? It would have to be Mediterranean food such as Paella, chorizo, octopus or seafood. Who is your favourite celebrity Chef? Marco Pierre White - he is a real personality and very hands on. I admire his hard work and dedication to the industry. What are your interests outside of work? I love travelling, which has taken me to many countries around the world. Most recently I
spent 2 weeks in Panama and Cuba. A great friend is Head Chef at Trump Tower in Panama City. We spent a wonderful evening eating great food on the top deck, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Sport is also a great passion. I support Leeds United Football Club, Leeds Rhinos Rugby League and, of course, Yorkshire Cricket. I enjoy a round of golf or two when I get some free time.
• Barnsdale Lodge is open to residents and non-residents, serving breakfast, morning coffee, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. Private dining is available and a good sized function room is perfect for weddings, charity evenings and other events. Barnsdale Lodge The Avenue, Exton, Oakham, LE15 8AH 01572 724678 www.barnsdalelodge.co.uk
STAMFORD LIVING NOVEMBER 2016
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