Service, please! What it’s like to cook at BiBi, Mayfair
It’s two days before my shift at BiBi Mayfair when I’m informed of the uniform requirements: black trousers, black socks, and chef shoes. Currently, my trousers are navy Service Works trousers, white Nike sports socks and a beaten-up pair of slightly-slippery soled New Balance sneakers. A trip to Nisbets, then.
This requirement for consistency was indicative of what would lie ahead. Chet Sharma, chef-patron of BiBi, is a precise type. If he asks for black trousers, I buy black trousers. If my trainers won’t cut the mustard, I’ll get clogs. Even before we begin, “yes, chef” is my given response for just about everything.
On the day, I arrive a touch before 10am, thinking I’m early. As it turns out, I’m the last to arrive. I’ve been granted the extra sleep as the guest for the day, in the same way you might forgive a friend’s partner for their dreary dinner party chat. At least
