MANILA, Philippines - Who is the British chef known for holding a Michelin Star in two restaurants — The Spotted Pig and The Breslin?
She was born in Birmingham, England in 1974 and began her culinary studies in Birmingham College. From there, she went on to hone her craft through cook positions in various kitchens throughout London and Northern Ireland, including Kensington Palace and Bibendum.
It was under the guidance of Ruth Rogers and Rose Gray at the River Cafe where she learned to appreciate the beauty and simplicity of food. While there, she was scouted by American chef Mario Batali following Jamie Oliver’s suggestion to open a bistro-style restaurant in New York City.
She was flown out to New York where she was offered the job after a 10-hour interview by Batali, which saw the pair eat at a variety of restaurants in the city. After spending the summer working at Chez Panisse to familiarize herself with local ingredients, she moved to New York in the autumn of 2003, and opened the gastropub, The Spotted Pig.
The Spotted Pig has earned many accolades including a Michelin Star for her seasonal British and Italian cooking. Located in the heart of the West Village, the original carriage house has been transformed into a convivial three-story pub with curios and artwork from local markets and abroad. Conditioned ales, an eclectic wine list, and signature cocktails are served.
In 2009, she and Ken Friedman opened the Breslin Bar and Dining Room at the Ace Hotel in Manhattan. The hearty, meat-centric menu at the Breslin has a strong emphasis on artisanal products, small growers, farmers and seasonality. The Breslin also earned a Michelin Star.
The John Dory Oyster Bar is her casual seafood spot at New York’s Ace Hotel. It recreates the lively feel of turn-of-the-century oyster bars and is more bar than restaurant, with cocktails from Sasha Petraske of Milk and Honey, counter seating, and a menu of small and shareable seafood dishes.
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Last week’s question: Who is the renowned Japanese architect who was one of the founders of the Metabolist movement and who designed world landmarks such as the Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Malaysia, the New Wing of the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, and the Singapore Flyer in Singapore?
Answer: Kisho Kurokawa
Winner: Rosita Yap of Dasmariñas, Cavite