Meet Maxi, a talented local chef who hosts private supper clubs and masterclasses for all you foodies out there. Read on to learn more about what he offers locals and why cooking is so important to him…
Where did your love of cooking come from?
I come from a very small family and spent a lot of time away at school, so food has always been associated with family and coming together for me. Sitting around the dining table felt like a special occasion and are some of my fondest memories.
My mum was a single mother and worked full time, so had little time to cook. My siblings and I were involved in the preparation from an early age. I had a great passion for food and hosting family dinners became a great love of mine in my teens. Still to this day when I go home, coming together revolves around food.
What’s your experience as a chef?
When I was 18, I attended Betty’s cooking school in Harrogate. It was here I realised professional cooking was a potential path open to me. At 20, I decided I wanted to do a ski season. I went to the French alps and got a job cooking for customers in chalets. The day in day out work, hosting dinner parties every night, allowed me to hone my skills and, over the years, get more creative with my menus.
I love to take risks and often over extend myself with my ideas but I always had great mentors to help guide and mature me, and I am very fortunate to call them friends. Later, I was able to use my cheffing skills to travel and spent 8 years around Europe, cooking for clients and soaking up food and culture.
Why do you enjoy cooking for people?
Food is about coming together. I love cooking for friends and family on special occasions or holidays. I spent most major holidays (including Christmas) with different families for 10 years, often being adopted into the festivities.
Being able to give these families a feast and bring them joy at a special occasion brought me great fulfilment. Cooking for people and interacting with them always makes my day.
What do you most want people to know about your food?
I cook from the heart and have a great passion for mixing flavours that sometimes might not work together. I draw a lot of my inspiration from my travels and experiences in life and am devoted to constantly developing my skills which I think comes through in my dishes.
How can people enjoy your food in the future?
I am available for private hire, events, special occasions. supper clubs and cooking classes. I have a range of events and supper clubs coming up. To find out more contact me via email at chefmaxibradbury@gmail.com or follow me on Instagram @chefmaxibradbury