A few months ago I went on something of a pilgrimage to The Great Kitchen at The Royal Pavilion in Brighton. It’s a spectacular facility built nearly two centuries ago for King George IV (then the Prince Regent) to show off to his guests. Only one wing has been preserved, but on display is evidence of the many innovations and the care that went into creating a great workspace for chefs. Even the most functional fittings are made to look attractive.
The Prince Regent thus managed to attract the services of the celebrity chef of the time, Marie Antonin Carême. In spite of it being my second visit to the space, it left me with a sense of deep awe and reverence. Again I pored over each and every detail. This was where Carême conducted the finest service of his illustrious career – a banquet hosted in honour of the Grand Duke Nicholas of Russia. Believe me when I tell you, the atmosphere still lingers. You can feel that something monumental took place there.
I urge you to take a trip to Brighton when you have some time off to visit that sacred space. Of course, there’s the rest of the Royal Pavilion and a trip to the seaside to fill the rest of your day. I’d love to hear of any other places of interest to chefs in your comments.