Back at F1!
Back at F1 again and I had forgotten how much of a buzz it brings. It has been a while since I have worn a chef's jacket properly, pretty much since the last F1 round, so stepping back into that environment felt slightly surreal at first. But muscle memory kicks in quickly. The pace, the pressure, the choreography of a kitchen running at full throttle. There is something addictive about that intensity when it is well organised and everyone knows their role.
This time I was working the Directors Suite as well as the Monster Suite, which felt like a step up. Different clientele, different standards, more detail in presentation, but the same high energy backdrop of engines and atmosphere outside. It is a strange contrast, precision plating while cars are flying around the track. Good vibes all round though. Exciting to be back in that world even briefly and to realise I can still slot into it when I need to.
During the 2023 season, filming was happening trackside for the movie F1, with Brad Pitt appearing in a white and black racing suit as part of a production woven into real Grand Prix weekends. The lines between sport and film blurred a bit, cameras, actors, actual race energy all happening at once. Apparently he spent some time in the Monster Suite, which technically means I fed Brad Pitt. I mean. Casual. Just plating up in a high pressure hospitality kitchen while an A-list Hollywood actor is somewhere in the vicinity. Not something I had on the bingo card but I will absolutely take it.
The Black Eyed Peas played too, without Fergie unfortunately, and I got to watch from the Directors Suite. They were not great if I am being honest. But Brad Pitt though.
