Martin Blunos is one of the UK’s greatest chefs. The blond haired, walrus-moustached Baltic giant of a man has a wicked sense of humour and is a most colourful character. Born and bought up near Bath, Martin’ parents came to England from Latvia just after the Second World War and he is greatly influenced by his mother’s wholesome cooking from her homeland and their Russian relatives. Martin ran his own restaurant with rooms,Restaurant Lettonie, in Bristol and latterly Bath for many years and in each of his restaurants earned two prestigious Michelin Stars. Food writers, critics and contemporaries were regular customers and Martin’s eclectic cooking attracted journalists of leading food publications from all around the globe.
Unlike many of his peers, Martin hasn’t learnt his craft from other master chefs. He went to college in Cheltenham, did a spell at the Strand Palace Hotel in London, a season in Switzerland and many cruises on a Greek tycoon’s yacht before finding a job at Lampwick’s in London’s Battersea Road, where the main competition came from Nico Ladenis in his early nouvelle cuisine phase.
Martin’snew and excitingrestaurant, ‘Blunos‘ has opened in Bath and is receiving rave reviews.
Describe your culinary philosophy in 5 words…
After all these years in the trade, I’ve come to the conclusion that “Less is more, or morealess”.
What is your greatest inspiration?
My mother – she brought me up to appreciate and respect food.
If you could take a plane ride to anyrestaurantin the world, just for one meal, where would you go?
Flight to Sweden to eat at Frantzen & Lindburg restaurant. worked for me in the past and I’d love see what he’s up to!
What three things would you take to a desert island?
1.Apair of flip flops, becauseit’ll look like I’m holiday and meant to be there.
2. Bear Grylls so thathe can look after me in a sort of wild-man-butler kind of way.
3. Sandlewood moustache wax;you never know when you’ve got to look your best!!!!!
- 2 Michelin stars | Restaurant Lettonie
35 Kelston Road
Bath
BA1 3QH
England