#INSPIREDBY PAULA FITZHERBERT

Paula is a legend in the hospitality world, and knows everyone; world famous chefs, singers, actors and hoteliers make up her phonebook. She began her career on Fleet Street at Punch Magazine before sidestepping into PR, then landing a job as PR for The Savoy. Paula is now Group Director of Communications for the Maybourne Group: Claridge's,The Connaught and The Berkeley.

What was one of the very first dishes you remember eating?

Creme Caramel made by my grandmother, when I was about 5 years old and I’ve had a sweet tooth ever since. I also remember celebrating my brothers 16th birthday at The Connaught when Michel Bourdin was chef, and having a fabulous prawn cocktail ...never thinking one day I would work there.

Who is your food hero?

The legendary Pierre Koffmann ...I worked with him for many years when he moved his 3 star restaurant La Tante Claire to The Berkeley, then when he opened Koffmanns many years later, and he really is the one person that everyone in the food world loves and respects, and he was super kind and supportive to my son. What a hero!

What is your guiltiest food pleasure?

A McDonalds double cheeseburger

Which restaurant to you long to return to?

Nobu Malibu Beach – just the most perfect combination of great food and one of the best views!

What would be your last meal?

Thai green curry – anything Thai really – such magical flavours

What dish do you cook the most at home?

My mother’s Smoked Haddock and prawn dish with rice. My children were brought up on it

Favourite vegetable?

Oven Baked parsnips

Most-used condiment?

Garlic and ginger

Most over-rated dish?

For me anything with caviar

Favourite restaurant not in the UK?

The restaurant at Fontelina beach club in Capri - best seafood / tomatoes / mozzarella / pasta in the world

Favourite fast food joint?

In N out burgers in US – we lived on them on a recent California road trip.

Quick Fire

Breakfast in bed or in Hotel Restaurant?

In bed ...always

English Breakfast Tea or Long Black Coffee?

Can I have a cappuccino?!

Martini - Gin or Vodka?

Gin but only made by Ago at Connaught Bar

Ketchup or mayo?

Mayo

Stella or Boli?

Is that even a question? I’m in PR … Boli :)

London or New York?

Oooh ...New York

City break or hideaway?

City break