We grill top chef, Founder of The Frog restaurant and Newby Teas Ambassador Adam Handling about his London haunts, tea habits and what he gets up to outside of the kitchen...

When you're not cooking, what takes up your time?

I go to the gym every day, and have a personal trainer five days a week. My gym is literally just around the corner from the restaurant so if I don’t turn up for a session, my trainer will walk into my kitchen and shout at me. There’s no escape! I also love to travel. Some of my food is influenced by things that I’ve picked up from time spent travelling across Asia. When I travel, I always taste everything I can. You pick up a lot about flavours and flavour combinations that way and I always take some inspiration away with me.

What souvenirs did you bring back from your last trip abroad?

Honestly? A box of cigars and 9 bottles of rum from Cuba!

Which country’s food do you love the most?

Japan. The food is fresh, simple and they really respect the ingredients.

What's your favourite place to head to for afternoon tea?

The Conrad Hotel in London. It’s very elegant, the food is delicious and it’s affordable.

How about Sunday brunch?

Roka in Canary Wharf is the best place for a brunch. With amazing Japanese-inspired dishes and drinks to accompany them, it’s a great place to relax at the weekend.

Where’s best to shop for food in London?

I love food markets but rarely get the chance to explore them properly. I also have to admit that I’m a big fan of Waitrose.

 

Which tea is your go-to morning brew?

I try to vary it. Sometimes it’s a good old English Breakfast and at others it might be a Jasmine Tea. Jasmine is one of my favourites.

Who is Adam Handling? Tell us in three words...

Innovative, ambitious, honest.