Happy New Year!
The new decade has got off to a very busy start as I have spent most of it in catering so far.
Here’s a statistic for you, apparently 97% of people that visit the Royal Pavilion Tea Room are new visitors. This is in sharp contrast to the Hove Museum Tea Room that is a regular meeting place for friends and families alike.
I have been surprised at the things that I have learned in catering. Besides the obvious hygiene best practice, basic food preparation, cleaning and serving the public, my preconceptions of the coffee/ Café culture in Brighton & Hove has been turned on its head with the realization that Tea is the most ordered beverage in both ‘Tea’ Rooms (obvious really, the clue’s in the name). English Breakfast is the most popular blend with Earl Grey well behind in second. However just as I felt I was getting a grip on tea varieties I realized that I still had a lot to learn when I was asked for Red Bush! As ever my colleagues were extremely helpful in educating me when they saw my blushes! You learn something every day.
Despite all the grim weather we’ve endured so far this year, the happiest moment was the free opening day at the Royal Pavilion. It was wonderful to see the looks on people’s faces when they saw the unique décor that has been so beautifully and sympathtically restored and maintained. It reminded me of the amazing team whose talent, experience, energy and sheer hard work ensure the survival of this unique building for generations to come.
Next it’s on to Bookings and another learning curve.

Zak