A stones throw from the world famous Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Salt - a 10 table restaurant in a beautiful grade 2 listed building in the centre of Stratford Upon Avon. Head Chef, Paul Foster has brought the first Michelin Star in to the town - and now, he’s releasing a Podcast.
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Each week, a special guest will enjoy an 8 course tasting menu and then, after dinner, make their way up the wooden stairs to join Simon Alexander (award winning podcaster and producer) and Paul Foster (Head Chef at Salt) for a Nightcap.
The podcast is around an hour of engaging conversation - a late night lock-in where some of the best chefs in the country candidly discuss and debate all things culinary over a few drinks.
The guests in series 1 are…
Series 1 Episode 1: Calum Franklin
Episode 2: Brad Carter
Episode 3: Frances Atkins
Episode 4: Simon Hulstone
Episode 5: Pete Sanchez
Episode 6: Paul Welburn
Episode 7: Tim Allen
Episode 8: Aaron Mulliss
The Chat
Paul, Simon (and each guest) discuss a variety of topics throughout the series that reveal what life is like behind the Michelin Star restaurant world. From kitchen banter crossing a line, to self-sustainability. From lifestyle and work ethic to customer complaints and reviews - all bases covered, no stone-unturned.
What makes this podcast unique is the intimate and relaxed nature of the content. The setting allows the guests to relax, surrounded by good company, which facilitates authentic reactions, answers and stories. It’s a "must listen to” podcast for all those who love food and want to hear/ learn from the best chefs in the country. Subsequently there are as many belly-aching laughs as sincere moments of vulnerability and honesty.
The idea was born when Paul Foster decided it was Stratford-upon-avon that’d be the place to open up his kick-starter restaurant. Local podcaster, producer and daytime-cooking show contestant, Simon Alexander (with co-collaborator Ollie Gallant) then gave birth to the idea of setting up microphones upstairs at Salt to interview star chefs from the UK. Paul jumped at the chance because he is a podcast fan who was craving a podcast of its kind, something that hadn’t existed before.
“Podcasts are a hugely growing medium & there’s a lot of foodie stuff out there, but nothing as honest, authentic or interesting as this. We’ve captured the REAL opinions & experiences of chefs. We’ve stripped away the egos and we are getting to the person behind the chef.” - Paul Foster, Nightcap co-host & and head chef at Salt, Stratford-Upon-Avon.
“Cooking shows now dominate our TV channels but I've always been fascinated about what happens when the cameras are turned off. Recording this 8 part series has been a fascinating insight into the chefs world. I've gasped in shock, laughed out loud and at times, found myself welling up with emotion. I can't thank the chefs enough for having these open, canid conversations.” Ollie Gallant, Nightcap Executive Producer.
“Having the chance to talk to chefs of this calibre in such an intimate way is insane to me. For anyone who loves food, like I do, its such great insight to life at that level of cooking. It’s a pleasure to host and be a part of, above all - it's a great laugh & I know people will love it.” Simon Alexander, Nightcap Host & Producer.
There’s been 157% increase of podcast consumption and podcast listeners spend an average of 6 and a half hours listening to them every week.
“All the guests on series one are completely different in personality, cooking styles and walks of life. Chefs love to talk about what gets them up in the morning and what pisses them off. Plus they get a night away, free booze, taster menu and a night in a hotel, why would they say no? I know every guest has loved coming on because they’ve had a opportunity to talk honestly about what they do. ” - Paul Foster, Nightcap co-host & and head chef at Salt, Stratford-Upon-Avon.
