By Gal Zohar
Working in restaurants for so many years has made its impact on me. Some things just stick forever. Each time I’m in a restaurant it’s the same story all over again. I just can’t help it. Cant help organizing and straightening the glasses, cutlery and plates to perfect symmetry. I always notice the drinks on the bar waiting to be served. I feel slightly uncomfortable when all the plates don’t hit the table at the same time and I just about manage not to shout out loud, ’service!’ each time I hear the ringing bell in the kitchen. Suffices to say that my wife feels embarrassed and promises each time not to take me out again.
The restaurant business is a though one indeed. There are the long hours, demanding guests and the need to keep smiling at all given time. Restaurateurs are a special breed. They are fuelled just by passion and won’t trade there profession for anything else. Most of them also tend to be great storytellers and always have an interesting take on the restaurant life.
This is why I was excited to meet Geraldine Leventis founder and owner of Raul’s Gourmet. Not only does she seems to be one of the few female restaurateurs around but her way into this world is an unusual one. Married to Painter Michael Leventis, back in 1985, most of her time was dedicated to hosting and entertaining some of the most famous artist of the time. One of whom was the painter Francis Bacon, and it was he who pressed her into opening her own restaurant. Watch her explain how her life suddenly changed.
Geraldine’s followed her instinct and cooking skill to create a successful business. Although you won’t find her in the kitchen she’s the brain behind every plate that leaves the kitchen. Twenty five years on Geraldine’s operation consists of a fine food delicatessen and two Cafés. All 3 are buzzing and benefit from her distinctive style and charm. Watch her explain why this makes her so proud.
It’s great to discover the real story and voice of a restaurant to see just how far passion and dedication take you.
Raoul’s Cafe Maida Vale
13 Clifton Road W9 1SZ Phone +44 (0) 207 289 7313
Raoul’s Cafe & Bar Notting Hill
105 – 107 Talbot Road W11 2AT +44 (0) 207 229 2400
Tags: Restaurants, Video
Gal, I know exactly what you mean. Whatever you do, you never stop being a sommelier at heart and in spirit. Perhaps we’re all just obsessed?
Robert,
I guess both simply go hand in hand. In order to become a real sommelier you have to be obsessed in the first place. Otherwise the whole things doesn’t make much sense at all.