September 2009
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Jean-Christophe Novelli's thoughts on food
Tell us about your latest venture.
Novelli’s is in Lorcrimar Hotel in Puerto Banus, Marbella (+34 952 90 61 05, hotel-lorcrimar.com). I have opened it in conjunction with a cooking academy in the Marbella Hills.
What was your favourite meal growing up?
My mother is my biggest influence. She used to make stuffed tomato. It’s very simple but a delight. You put beef or lamb mince with chopped shallots, flat leaf parsley and a bit of garlic into a big tomato and cook slowly in the oven.
Which chefs do you admire?
I love Keith Floyd. He’s unique. Marco Pierre White is a genius. And Raymond Blanc has come from nowhere – what he has achieved is incredible. He puts melody into cooking.
Where have you eaten the best meal?
Pavilion in Moscow. Fantastic. I tasted lots of different things amongst which were beetroot and honey, smoked salmon with capers and pancakes.
What is the secret of a successful restaurant?
Be honest, be original and constantly change. Just be yourself and always renew the menu so that it is fresh.
