This week it’s the turn of ARIEL WOJDYLO, chef at Bottelinos at The Pattern Store. Call 01793 887710

When did you first take an interest in cooking, and when did you decide you wanted to become a chef?

I first started taking a real interest in cooking when I was in Bottelinos in Emersons Green. Watching the other chefs gave me the mental enthusiasm to want to learn the trade.

Where did you do your training?

My training began in Swindon when I worked alongside another of our chefs and a cookery teacher from the local college who came in weekly until I earned a certificate in cookery and mastered the style of cooking suitable for this restaurant.

How would you describe the style of food served in your restaurant?

The food here at Bottelinos is a traditional fresh Italian cuisine using ingredients from around the world.

Do you have a signature dish? If so, what?

My signature dish would be Filleto Rossini, our 8oz fillet on our home made Italian bread topped with a thin layer of pate and covered in a red wine, tomato and basil sauce. It’s finished with a fried slice of Prosciutto and served with our sautéed potatoes.

What would you order from your own menu?

If I was to visit this restaurant I would order the Argentinian Cote de beouf. This is a 24oz rib of Argentinian beef made for sharing, ideal for a meal out with a partner, accompanied by a bottle of red and side dishes.

Your favourite vegetable, and why?

My favourite vegetable is the courgette, accompanied with carrots and cauliflower topped with a béchamel sauce and slowly baked.

And favourite dessert?

Homemade traditional tiramisu. Light but very tasty.

Do you cook a lot at home? What sort of food?

I’m always cooking at home. I like to cook dishes from Poland where I come from, as well as Italian dishes. I’m also very creative and like to fuse different cuisines.

Where else locally do you like to eat?

One of my favourite restaurants in Swindon would be Rendezvous. Very tasty food and great staff.

Why should people come to Bottelinos?

I think Bottelinos is for everybody. The variety suits one and all, whether it’s a quiet meal for two or a family lunch, we are more than happy to accommodate. With fresh food cooked in front of your eyes with our open kitchen, and a friendly floor team to look after you throughout, you’d be crazy not to pay us a visit.