41 Portland Place’s Head Chef Will Carvalho
Want to hear more about the chef who provides the best event catering in Central London? Read on to find out more about our resident Chef Will Carvalho...
How would you describe your role as Head Chef at the Academy of Medical Sciences?
I cook for all the events at AMS, from large canapé parties and conference lunches to small exclusive dinners. The role is very exciting and adventurous and provides a good challenge for my skills and knowledge.
What’s your typical day?
I get up at 6 am, get ready to leave the house and get on the train. Other than that, the days are never the same which is great for me. I find that every day brings a new challenge.
What is the best part of your job?
I love my job; from the moment I take delivery of the ingredients, prep them and cook them to when they go on the dish ready to be served to the client, I love the whole process. Everyone is a VIP to me.
And the worst part?
Delays! Everyone should be like a Swiss Watch.
Life before H & J?
My homeland is Portugal and it was there that I started my career as a chef. I then went to Africa, to the Sao Tome and Principe islands off the coast of Gabon where I worked for 2 years in a hotel resort. From Africa I went to a country house hotel near Bath for 2 years and then decided to move to London. I guess I have been a bit of a traveller.
Why H & J?
I did a search on Harbour and Jones and their venues, which sounded exciting and I wanted to give them a try. I am still here, almost 3 years later, which says a lot! My first job was at the Royal Society in Carlton House Terrace which was an amazing venue and from there I moved to AMS in Portland Place which I love.
Why still H & J?
The business concept and the dedication from all H&J staff makes you want to work more and contribute to this company, and keep on doing so.
What about when you’re old & grey?
Good weather, shorts and flip flops.
When you’re not at work?
Guess what? Cooking! I never get tired of cooking for my wife, friends and family. Also, travelling, football and these days, photography.
