For this instalment of From the Kitchen we reached out to Luke Mattherson, who works at The Pudding Pantry - an independent, coffee and desserts restaurant popular across the city.
When did you first know you wanted to make food for a living?
In 2012 I began making handmade pasta and fell in love with Italian cuisine.
Which person has been the biggest influence on your cooking and why?
A wonderful lady called Anna. I learned quickly that recipes were a guide and that the finished product was what came from me.
Describe your venue in three words?
Homemade, family, pancakes.
What's the best-selling item on your current menu and why?
I would say our Nduja Chorizo hash. It's simple and full of flavour.
What’s your personal favourite item on your current menu and why?
I would say our fried buttermilk chicken pancakes with maple sriracha. I love the combination!
What/where was the best meal you have ever cooked?
I worked at Jamie's Italian in 2015. We used to make a rabbit ragu, which was finished with mascarpone and lemon granata. It was sensational.
What/where was the best meal you have ever eaten? And who cooked it?
I finished work after a long day and my wife made a curry – still to this day I cannot replicate it. On a side note, Kushi-ya has a prawn toast that’s ridiculously good!
Other than your own place, where do you eat out most in Notts?
Despite my love for Italian food I mostly find myself eating Thai food. Coco Tang and Zaap Thai – they have good lunch offers.
Who are your five ideal dinner party guests, alive or dead? And what’s on the menu?
My wife, Jesus, Peter, Matthew and John. Bread and fish.
You can visit The Pudding Pantry in Sherwood, Beeston, or Nottingham City Centre.
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