Meet the chef: Ian Curley of French Saloon

By MiNDFOOD

Meet the chef: Ian Curley of French Saloon

As food gets fancier and fancier, there’s something to be said about a chef who avoids the fads and just sticks to honest, traditional cooking. Ian Curley is one such chef – a true master of the classics.

Born in Britain, Curley has been based in Melbourne for 25 years. He’s headed up some of the city’s most iconic restaurants – from The Point Albert Park to The European – and is currently co-owner and chef at French Saloon and Kirk’s Wine Bar. Earlier this year he added another string to his bow, when he was made creative culinary partner at Canberra’s Monster Kitchen & Bar.

As one of the nation’s most awarded chefs, Curley has also made appearances on shows such as MasterChef and Yes Chef, and hosted Channel 7’s Conviction Kitchen – which he refers to as one of the most challenging moments of his career. However, even with the ups and downs, after 35 years in the kitchen, he still loves what he does.

“Through the years, I have never once gotten bored or lost my passion for cooking,” he says. “I am constantly placed in high-pressure situations where I am challenged, and I learn something new every day. It really is a great career.”

Curley’s genuine passion for cooking is definitely one of the ingredients for his success – as is his deceptively simple food philosophy. While food trends come and go, Curley’s principles remain the same: “I always try to serve the kind of food that I would personally like to enjoy myself if I was dining out.”

Considering this, where would Curley go for a meal in Melbourne? “I love anywhere where family are with me,” says Curley, “but if I had to choose, Café Di Stasio in St Kilda is special to me for many reasons. I appreciate any good restaurants where I know the staff are working with pride and respect the great produce.”

When he’s not in the kitchen, you can find Curley with his partner Simone and their three daughters. He’s also a self-described golf addict – “if I could play at night I would.” He’s an ambassador to the Pancare Foundation, and does a lot of work with charities such as Soldier On Australia and Battle Back Britain.

“I have been lucky enough to have been afforded great opportunities,” he says, “so if I can give something back then I am all for helping out.”

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