We had a chat with the Anglo Thai chef, John Chantarasak, to find out what standout dish he’s got in store for us at Taste this summer and why Prince is the ultimate kitchen soundtrack. From mastering knife skills to using fish sauce like a pro, here’s 5 Minutes with John Chantarasak…

What restaurant are you most excited to try at Taste this year?

Akira Back

What are you most looking forward to at Taste this year?

Cooking at The Taste Fire Pit! I’ll be making a dish Blythburgh pork chop in a fresh pressed coconut cream marinade served alongside a smoked tomato and grilled chilli relish.

What is your favourite dish you have created/that is on your menu?

Our current main course serving of Ryall Farm sheep (the farm is owned and worked by my wife’s family) with lovely spring ingredients such as broccolli, wild garlic and clams, all served with a herbal curry sauce inspired by the rural Thai dish ‘gaeng om’.

If you weren’t a chef, what would you be?

A Musician, I used to play drums in a band before I got into cooking.

What’s your go-to tune or artist in the kitchen?

We listen to an eclectic mix in our kitchen at AngloThai but if I could only choose one artist, it would be Prince.

What makes London’s food scene unique?

The diversity of cuisines being represented at the highest standard.

What is your go-to London restaurant?

Ploussard

If you had to pick one London restaurant to be at Taste next year, who would that be?

Plates

Who’s your chef to watch in London?

Christian Faulkner – he’s the Head Chef of Ikoyi, which is an incredible restaurant. Christian does his own pop-ups from time to time and I’ve been fortunate to try his food at those events – I can guarantee it slaps hard!

What’s the most useful trick you’ve learned in the kitchen?

Knife skills. Many kitchens are filled with the best state of the art equipment but I think having great knife skills is a key asset, including knowing how to properly sharpen your knife so you can do jobs with precision

What ingredient summarises your personality?

Chillies

What’s the most underrated ingredient?

Fish sauce

What inspired you to get into cooking?

Just a love of food, eating and restaurants

What is your top tip for being more sustainable in the kitchen?

Use all ingredients in their entirety – there is very little of an ingredient that should even need to find its way into the bin.