5ive Star London recently had the opportunity to speak with Executive Chef Dominic Teague from the
Axis Restaurant located in the luxury
5 star hotel One Aldwych in Covent Garden. The modern British menu using the finest seasonal ingredients is not to be missed.
How did you start?
I was very fortunate from a very early age. I always knew I wanted to be a chef. I started with restaurant experience when I was 14. I had some very good mentors. They suggested I go to London for a year or two and 20 years later I am still here! I enjoy living in London, it is a great place to stay at whilst you are young. There is so much opportunity here. The Lanesborough Hotel had just opened when I started working there. Everyone was so passionate and we had some amazing guests coming through. Sandy Lane in Barbados was one of the highlights of my career.
How would you describe Axis?
We try to focus on British produce. It is very refined and we focus on quality and seasonality. We try and keep it relaxed and low key. At the same time we want to do the best we can. My favourite dish here at the moment is a poached and roasted loin of pork, braised pork cheek and summer peas; very light and fresh and sums up what we are about. I would also recommend the sea bream. We do a lovely mango cheesecake which people have been raving about.
Favourite restaurants in London?
L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon, Bar Boulud at The Mandarin Oriental and so much more! From a consumer point of view London is fantastic. There is so much variety and there are great restaurants and it gives us competition.
What should a newcomer to One Aldwych expect?
We are well known for the fantastic location, great service and products. It is done in a very understated way with great setup and structure.
We try to keep low key. As a contemporary hotel we try to match the food with the ambiance of the place. We can stay hands-on involved with what happens at the hotel as it is a relatively smaller operation which allows us to pay attention to detail.
Your advice to a visitor of London?
A newcomer to London should wake up early, plan what they want to see as there is so much to see in London. I would recommend people take their time in seeing what they really want to and not rush through it!
For more fine dining ideas during your stay in London view our selection of the best
Restaurants in London.