Mark is an award-winning chef and former head chef of Michelin starred Claridge’s in London. Now back in his native Kent, with his own much hyped restaurant Rocksalt and upmarket fish and chip shop The Smokehouse. He’s collaborated with Gordon Ramsay on over ten of his books and co-authored Gordon Ramsay’s Great British Pub Food. His own book My Kind of Cooking, is due to be published next month.

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If money was no object, where would you open a restaurant and what would it be like?
I have to be honest and say it would be in Folkestone and exactly like the one we have built! I’m so proud of what we have accomplished already and it can only get better.

If you had to eat the same meal every day for the rest of your life, what would it be?
I would have to say it would be Chinese crispy shredded beef or the crispy duck salad from Le Caprice.

What do you keep on your bedside table?
A glass of water, my phone and a James Bond novel.

When is the last time you had a McDonald’s or similar fast food?
I have to admit I love a Quarter Pounder with cheese but haven’t had one for about 3 months.

What is your career Plan B?
Hmmm…..a billionaire?!

What’s your favourite recipe from your restaurant Rocksalt to cook at home?
I love the Mackerel Pasty. It’s fantastic.

Is there any food you can’t stand to eat?
I pretty much like everything but I’m not really a big fan of paw paw!

Do you have any reoccurring dreams?
I tend to dream quite a lot but the one I have most these days is being back in service at Royal Hospital Road! I’m sure a shrink would read a lot into that but personally I just think I’m re-living an exciting time of my life!

Who would be your ideal dinner date?
Without question my ideal dinner date would be Keith Floyd. As a man, a cook and an entertainer he was magical!

What is the one object you can’t do without?
My bottle opener

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