Today we have been talking to experienced Head Chef at the Phoenix Restaurant, Aonghus O’Reilly who has kindly agreed to meet us and answer our questions.
Aonghus joined Phoenix Restaurant in August 2012 and he is delighted to be working with a like-minded team and Phoenix’s management. His position also involves more sociable hours than Aonghus’ previous jobs therefore he is enjoying having stability and has more time for his family.
The positive aspects about working with Compass Group that appeal to Aonghus are corporate structure, regulation and straightforward ideas.
The company’s policies provide great guidance and add to professionalism and future prospects. There is a contracted food supplier for the Phoenix. At this stage Aonghus has become familiar with customer preferences and how these preferences dictate their purchases.
Interesting things to know about Aonghus:
The most essential item in the kitchen: knife -” can’t do anything without it” admits Aonghus.
Favourite ingredient: Celeriac
“It is a root vegetable with a creamy texture and firm flavour. It is beautiful in soups and roastings…” – how Aonghus describes it would make it sound appealing to anyone although it may sound, on first hearing, as being just another insignificant root. Aonghus makes one to imagine the dish and want to try it. It is apparent how much passion he has for his profession.
Chef inspired by: Ed Cooney Executive chef in Merrion Hotel is a great mentor that Aonghus keeps in touch with because of the confidence that Ed showed in him from his early years as a chef. He still keeps in touch with Ed who is an excellent contact.
Cook Books: Aonghus has more than 120 cook books! He could buy a book just because of one recipe but he does not like getting cook books as presents.
Having eaten at the Phoenix Restaurant for the past half year every day we could highly recommend it to anyone to enjoy its rich nutrition and fresh ingredients prepared by Aonghus.
The picture in this post is used with the kind permission of Aonghus O’Reilly.
Phoenix Restaurant, NUI Maynooth 