Justin Pilkington

Justin Pilkington is Head Chef at Penmaenuchaf Hall, near Dolgellau.

Your cooking style in a word (or two) : Modern British.

Biggest influence : David McLoughlin (Head Chef at Holbeck Ghyll Country House Hotel, Windermere).

Favourite local produce : Chanterelle mushrooms from Coed y Brenin Forest.

Favourite dish : In Penmaenuchaf, roasted best end of Rhiwaedog lamb in a herb crumb with boulanger potatoes, aubergine caviar and a tomato and olive jus. Plain and simple at home - homemade chips, egg, bread and butter.

Gordon Ramsey or Jamie Oliver?  Gordon.

Welsh rarebit or cheese sandwich? Welsh rarebit.

Who would you like to cook for and why?

Rowan Atkinson and Tony Robinson from Blackadder, the funniest comedy ever.

Favourite Welsh Rarebits restaurant (apart from your own, obviously)?

Bodysgallen Hall and Spa, Llandudno.

We’re paying, where in the world do you want to eat?

Cabbages and Condoms Restaurant, Bangkok
(I love Thai food. Don’t be put off by the name,it’s a great place).

Any other passions apart from cooking?

Travelling to exotic places.