Meet Steven Strachan, our General Manager, who’s in charge of all things restaurants and bars at Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel.
First things first, tell us a bit about you…
I’m from a wee town in the Scottish Borders, where there are very few humans and loads of sheep! I haven’t been to university/college as I was never the greatest academic – I just wanted to work. One of my uncles managed a very successful restaurant when I was growing up, and it was the pace and atmosphere there that got me excited about the hospitality industry. It’s all about the satisfaction you get when a guest or a member of your team has a positive experience in your workplace. And you can get so much out of the industry – I was lucky enough to be a part of the team that gained a Michelin star at Martin Wishart at Loch Lomond.
And what’s your role?
In a nutshell, I’ve been heading-up BABA, The Garden and room service in the hotel since August 2021. I’m responsible for the service in all of those areas, plus I work with our chefs and bar managers to bring the whole food and drink experience together.
My favourite thing about the job is how everything revolves around people – no two days are the same!
What’s your all-time favourite item from the BABA menu?
Definitely the lamb shoulder and ptitim with a glass of Chateau Oumsiyat Merlot. Can’t beat it as a combination!
What are three words your teammates would use to describe you?
Approachable, knowledgeable, funny.
What country is on your food and drink bucket list?
Morocco – no surprise working in a restaurant like this!
Tell us something that people don’t know about you
I came third in the 1999 Best Waiter in the UK competition. I also won a pool tournament in Ibiza when I was 12 – against adults!
Do you have any hidden talents?
I found out during lockdown that I can sketch and I’ve managed to sell a few original pieces.
It’s time for quickfire questions!
If you were stranded on a desert island, what three things would you want to have with you and why?
A weapon for killing fish to eat, a well for fresh water, and my children to grow old together.
If you could snap your fingers and be an expert in something, what would it be?
A bass guitarist – it’s always the sound I hear first in any song, and generally they are the coolest band member!
What would be the theme song to your life?
Caledonia/You’ll Never Walk Alone – that’s two, sorry!
What’s your favourite quote?
The grass isn’t always greener on the other side…