Meet the Chef: 15 minutes with Jordan Thompson, Owner and Head Chef at Smoke and Mirrors in Portsmouth
Jordan Thompson, is a multi award winning chef who has been in the industry for 14 years. After being Marco Pierre White’s former executive chef at his home in Wiltshire, Jordan has brought his extensive skill set and knowledge back to his hometown in Portsmouth. Jordan and Caitlyn strive to introduce innovative and signature dishes, accompanied by exceptional service to Smoke and Mirrors Restaurant
Why did you decide to become a chef?
Due to my dyslexia I found school and academic work extremely difficult. I started cooking simple dishes at home from an early age (probably 8 or 9 years old) and really enjoyed being in the kitchen this is where it all began for me.
What was it like working for Marco Pierre White?
Working with Marco not only taught me the importance of being a chef but to be a cook in my own right. The lessons he has taught me will be with me, not only in service, but for life. “Think, envision, create, taste, review “
What is your favourite cuisine to cook?
Old school English with a contemporary twist using French techniques.
What foods do you like to pair together and why?
Game with Figs. Pear with Partridge. Peaches with Thyme, Lavender & fresh cream panna cotta – delicious sweet and sexy.
What is your favourite wine?
I discovered a wonderful vineyard in Sussex called Tinwood. The owners offered me the opportunity to cook for their first chefs series of gourmet evenings pairing local ingredients with the amazing English sparkling wines they produce. Without a doubt their Blanc de Blanc is my favourite.
How would you describe your cooking style?
I like to try a variety of different cooking styles, always diversifying.
Do you have a favourite time of the year or set of ingredients that you look forward to working with?
The winter months when the weather gets colder food gets heartier with more root vegetables and squashes, game meats and rich treats. What’s not to love about the winter.
What differences do you find working with local produce as opposed to non-local produce in terms of what you can create and flavour?
Working alongside local producers gives me more control over the seasonal ingredients which ensures the quality of dishes served in the restaurant.
What is your favourite piece of kitchen equipment?
Kitchen equipment has moved on leaps and bounds but a good quality chef’s knife will always be the best piece of equipment and can showcase a chefs skills behind the blade.
What is your favourite dish to cook at home?
It has to be a traditional roast dinner with Yorkshire pudding locally sourced meat and vegetables all the trimmings and a homemade gravy.
When you are not in the kitchen where can you be found?
If I’m not catching up with sleep, I’m spending time with my family including our four English bulldogs. I always get a special welcome home from our eldest one Bronson.
What’s your favourite takeaway or comfort food?
My favourite takeaway has to be a traditional stone baked pizza followed by gelato ice cream.
About Smoke and Mirrors, Portsmouth
Smoke and Mirrors Restaurant is located on the High Street of Old Portsmouth, bringing a unique and atmospheric dining experience to Hampshire.
Smoke and Mirrors Restaurant is also available for private events, including birthday celebrations, anniversaries, baby showers, work events and many more. With its intimate dining venue, Smoke and Mirrors Restaurant is the perfect location for celebrations or gatherings. Jordan will work alongside guests to ensure menus are tailored to individual event requirements, providing unique experiences depending on the event type.
Tel: 07551 088962
www.smokeandmirrorsportsmouth.co.uk
Wednesday – 6pm-10pm
Thursday – 6pm-10pm
Friday – 6pm-10pm
Saturday – 6pm – 10pm
Sunday – 12pm-3pm
