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Recently I stumbled upon a local chef whose career spans continents, collaborating with culinary giants like Mark Hix, Pierre Marco White, Bill Granger and Peter Gordon to name just a few. What truly captivated me, however, was not his impressive CV, but his extraordinary narrative. Julian Biggs is quite the character, a humble soul, quietly going about his business as head chef in a local bar, yet there is something quite mysterious about him. I’d describe him as dark and stormy but very much the gentleman. I knew I had to invite him for coffee and hear all about his untold story.
A stroke altered his path, steering him towards a mission centred around optimal nutrition, exploring how food and various elements impact our bodies both positively and negatively.
What struck a cord with me was our shared dedication to distinct quests - his pursuit of using food as medicine aligning remarkably with my exploration through the therapeutic powers of journaling. Amidst our conversation, he unveiled his venture into writing a book. Within minutes of hearing this, I knew it is going to be a unique publication. A creation intertwining local entrepreneurs, eccentric characters and the most interesting human beings, all united by a single thread - which I’m yet to find out more about. I’m so curious about his forthcoming book, as I’m sure it will unravel the untold stories on such fascinating personas. I love untold stories. Far too many of them hidden away in a notebook, in the drawer collecting dust. I know for a fact, that Julian’s untold story needs to be written and shared with the masses!
I’m eagerly anticipating our upcoming coffee meet up later this week. Out next conversation will give me an opportunity to delve deeper into his experiences and hopefully discover more about what makes him tick. It was no surprise to discover that he supports an amazing charity called ‘The Burnt Chef Project’ - a mental health initiative, which addresses and highlights the mental health issues amongst chefs and hospitality staff. This is something very close to my own heart, as I spent many years in the hospitality industry, many moons ago. Back then I met lots of hard working souls in the catering industry, most suffering in silence with whatever was troubling them at the time. The Burnt Chef Project will be a huge blessing for the hospitality industry and so timely.
What a dude Julian Biggs is, I highly recommend you check out his website Julian Biggs if you’re as curious as I am to follow his journey.
Until the next time
Take care and stay safe xx