There's a saying about travelling that likens it to a kite, that is to say you don't know what it will bring back; a new life, a new friend, a new love, a new country. If your passion in life is food, then it's likely you will bring back memories of wild new flavours, dishes that impressed you so much you hastily scribbled down the recipe, of meals shared with strangers who became friends, of colourful marketplaces crammed full of scrumptious produce, and restaurants that nourished you with their warm, hospitable embrace. We caught up with Damaris Coulter, who with her sister Renee owns the bustling restaurant Coco's Cantina on K Rd, fresh from a month of travelling, to ask what inspired her most.
What did your itinerary look like?
Mad. In just a few weeks I managed to fit in Hong Kong, Paris, Caen, Perpignan, Finestret, Barcelona, Sardinia, Turin, Roma, Umbria, Sperlonga, Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
What were you hoping to find?
Mostly I was looking for restaurants and eateries I could take inspiration from. I was looking for food and service done with love and care, simple and classic. I was looking for established eateries that had been handed down through generations of families and communities, where the people still loved what they did after many years and were driven by passion rather than profit.
And the standouts?
Valentino's in Rome has always inspired me. The same two men on the floor and the same two women in the kitchen, five nights and four lunches a week. The decor, service and food has evolved rather than been designed. The menu is simple salads, bistecca, bruschetta and scamorza, usually with just one dessert special. And a true highlight was recognising the simplicity of the Asian food carts. I love their ability to do so much, so well, on wheels and make a family living off it.
What were your five most surprising finds?
1. A friend's dad cooking fish in the living-room fireplace, which was tricky as it was 35C outside.
