You probably know him as the man heading up the Michelin-starred kitchen at The Black Swan at Oldstead, but Tommy Banks is branching out with Roots in York, and we caught up with him ahead of the opening.
What’s your all time favourite restaurant in London?
The Ledbury is brilliant. Consistently excellent – the best produce cooked with perfect technique.
Who is your chef to watch right now?
Lee Westcott. Whatever his next move is will be special.
Can you recommend us somewhere in London we might not have been?
Fenchurch Restaurant. I used to work with Dan Fletcher at The Black Swan and he is a wonderful talent.
Apart from Roots, where else should we eat when we’re in York?
York is beginning to thrive with top restaurants. My favourites are Skosh for sharing plates and Le Cochon Aveugle for a tasting menu.
Which ingredient should we be eating for autumn?
Damson plums, I love them with game or in desserts.
