Dinner with... Shaun Molloy

Published on Friday 19 June 2009 13:55

Shaun Molloy is head chef at the Arches, in Glasgow (0141-565 1035, www.thearches. co.uk). Previously he was junior sous chef at the Ubiquitous Chip, also in Glasgow, for six years. His earlier career took him to Mallorca, Cape Town and Ackergill Tower, a 500-year-old "castle with accommodation" in Caithness. The Arches now has share pots for £10 and new evening and lunch menus.

What's the best meal you've had? It was an over-the-top large meat platter at a local hangout in Alcudia, Mallorca. There was too much food, but every piece was cooked to perfection. Rabbit legs, pork loin, lamb rack, steak – a meat-lover's dream.

What's the worst meal you've had? A so-called simple chorizo and potato salad at a well known Glasgow restaurant, in Princes Square.

What's in your fridge? Some hams, cheeses, chutneys, condiments, a good selection of vegetables and bits and bobs for our toddler.

What's your hangover fix? A bacon and egg sandwich – it's my all-time favourite and cures all ills.

What is your most useful kitchen utensil? My mini Global palette knife. I use it for all sorts of things.

What's your guilty pleasure? A doner kebab, and often I don't need alcohol; my local takeaway does a mean kebab.

What's your classic standby recipe? A version of ceviche using smoked haddock and served with a crispy poached egg.

Who would you invite to a fantasy dinner party? Richard Pryor, the comedy legend – he probably had some fantastic stories to tell. Aiden Byrne – a young Michelin-starred chef whose food I admire. And Howard Marks – he has led an interesting life and I'd like to hear about it.

Which food says home to you? My mum's spag bol, I remember it so well from when I was growing up.

Have you ever been on a diet? No, I'm lucky I don't have to watch my weight.

What's the one food that makes you feel better? My girlfriend's Cape Malay chicken curry – when I smell it being cooked I'm instantly happy and content.

Do you eat airline food? I've done a few long-haul flights in recent years, and on a 12-hour flight you don't really have much choice. And, to be honest, it's not that bad.

Do you buy organic? On occasion, but always when buying chicken.

How tidy is your kitchen? It's the nature of the job. I try to keep my home kitchen tidy and organised, although I have a toddler so it's not always possible.