Andy Drape is a familiar face to North East food lovers from his days at restaurants such as Barn Asia, Blackfriars and Sohe. He’s married to Steph and they live in Heaton.
LUXE PEOPLE >>
In terms of food, Alistair Little – and closer to home, Brian James now at Arlo, was a great guiding chef. Music-wise, Prince.
Steph – and my mum, obviously.
LUXE PLACES >>
For a weekend > We’re just back form a weekend in Manchester – ate very good tapas at El Gato Negro sitting at the chef’s table. Stayed at the Abode hotel – great staff.
A long holiday > Singapore and the Malaysian islands – also our honeymoon in Hong Kong and Japan. Went to a great restaurant in Kyoto called Giro Giro where no English was spoken, great atmosphere.
A treat > The Park Hyatt in Tokyo – outstanding!
LUXE RELAX >>
Best food > Curries and Asian food because there are so many flavours to go at. Love the textures, and blends – had a very memorable Malaysian penang curry which the best ever – made your eyes go curly!
Best wine > Champagne – a nice chilled LPR.
Favourite restaurant > Giro Giro as mentioned – in Newcastle the Earl of Pitt Street up by the football ground. I like Nobu in London and Hong Kong.
Perfect weekend > I’d go to Spain, to Valencia for great food and good art.
Downtime means > It would have to be social – I love music so I would go and see bands. I’m usually stuck in the kitchen – but there’s always music!
Best telly > Ray Donovan or Billions.
Best theatre > More of a gig guy than a theatre man.
Best book > One of my favourites is the autobiography of Tony Cascarino – he talks about the Marseille relegation scandal – compelling stuff.
Best sounds > I’ve got a massive collection of music – from De la Soul to Omar, Massive Attack, ther Avalances, Zero 7. The work playlist has about 15,000 tracks.
LUXE SHOP >>
Best shopping city > The internet! Failing that, I like a trip to Leeds – and Japan is brilliant.
Favourite shop > Paul Smith.
Luxe retail treat > Speakers.
Best buy > Four Loewe speakers.
LUXE PARTY >>
A memorable night out > Our first birthday at River Beat was pretty special.
Perfect party > The ones you don’t plan. Out in the sticks with loads of friends and a band.
Best dress > My wedding suit from Vivienne Westwood – with embossed Paul Smith shoes.
Dinner date > My wife – she will say Will Smith.
YOUR LUXE THINGS IN LIFE >>
It’s got to be happiness – the key to everything. And food.
