It's typical of him, indeed of many Italian families, to mark the turn of the year this way. The plump roundness of the lentil is believed to symbolise the circle of life and lentils always form part of their new year celebratory meal.

What will guests want this year? After all, we need to be in tune with the wishes of as many guests as possible.

Everyone, understandably, will be cautious with money so the restaurateur in me must remain conscious of offering good value within surroundings which, hopefully, are always welcoming, comforting, even charming. Meanwhile the chef in me yearns to offer great food, every day, so my goal is to blend value with interest, excitement and fine flavours.