Shooting Stars - Sean Hope of The Olive Branch Pub

In my first installment of 'Shooting Stars', where I get to go and photograph Michelin Starred restaurants, I visit The Olive Branch Pub in Rutland and get to meet up with chef and co-owner Sean Hope.

So tell us a little about The Olive Branch... The Olive Branch is a village pub in the heart of Rutland, serving good honest food, fine wines and real ales in a relaxed informal setting. We have a great interest in recreating retro style rustic pub dishes

And have you always wanting to be a chef? What was your inspiration?

 Always been enthusiastic about cooking since I was 12 yrs old, when I inherited my elder brothers job as a pot wash at the Olive Branch

You must have a personal favourite – fish or meat?

I don’t have a particular favourite food, it's a little like asking me which of my children I like most, I love them both equally, it depends on the seasonal time of year.

What one food couldn’t you live without?

There are too many to choose, although seasoning plays a huge role in our kitchens.

What’s the oddest dish you’ve given a go?

Not so much the oddest, but we do pride ourselves in utilising interesting ingredients in an innovative way. We recently developed a snail sausage, served with parsley and garlic veloute.

Is there anyone you’d like to name who works with food that’s inspired you?

Marco White, Michel Gerrard, Alain Ducasse and Raymond Blanc to name a few, although the greatest inspiration comes from my brigade that make it all happen every day of the week.

So running your own show. Has it been a journey of A to B or more a rollercoaster ride?

More of a roller coaster ride than a drive in the country!

What’s been your high?

The high was being recognised by Michelin and being award a coveted Michelin Star in 2002.

Any lows?

The low is having to sign the cheques to the Inland Revenue

What would be your advice to others about to start their own business?

Produce a stead fast business plan, never compromise on quality and work very hard at it!

The Olive Branch Pub in the village of Clipsham in Rutland. For further details you can contact the pub on 01780 410355 or visit their website at  - www.theolivebranchpub.com