London welcomes a partnership between internationally acclaimed chef and book author Jun Tanaka, owner of the Ninth, and the homeware design store West End. They teamed up to offer London foodies a chance to learn simple and delicious recipes from the Chef himself using some of the best equipment. Mr. Tanaka told us a bit more about this wonderful series of masterclasses.

The partnership between The Ninth and West Elm sounds intriguing! What is this collaboration about?

One of the reasons that I love Fitzrovia is its sense of community so when I opened The Ninth, I wanted us to be a part of this neighbourhood. West Elm describes their stores as community hubs and hosts regular local workshops and events so I contacted them to collaborate on the cooking classes. Also, I like their ethos and I’m a huge fan of their products!

What can guests expect to learn from your sessions in terms of cooking skills?

All the dishes are simple recipes that anyone can recreate at home. They are spring and summer recipes showcasing the best seasonal ingredients. Guests will learn simple tips and tricks that will improve their cooking and presentation skills.

What recommendation would you give amateur cooks in terms of ingredients when preparing a meal?

Always cook with seasonal ingredients. When products are in season, they have the most flavour and will be at the best price. A simple tomato salad in December will never taste as good as in July.

Guests will also bring home a copy of your “Simple to Sensational” 5-star rated cookbook. Could you tell us a bit more about the book’s approach to cooking and how can readers make the most of it?

This book is a collection of very simple recipes that any novice can achieve and for every simple recipe, there is a more refined version for dinner parties. This transition is achieved by very easy tips and techniques. I think of the simple recipes as Monday to Friday after work dishes and the sensational versions are for the weekend.

Apart from the collaboration and cookbook how can members taste your food?

Come and eat at my restaurant – The Ninth.

Do not miss the chance to experiment with the flavors typical of the Mediterranean cuisine and learn to create some of the chef’s favorite home recipes, including a mouthwatering Sea bass carpaccio with salsa verde. Tickets cost £50 per person and can be booked via The Ninth’s website ().

 

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