Stroud Times sat down with Wesley Birch from BIRCH catering and restaurant. Wes started his career at William’s kitchen in Nailsworth, 2001, before branching out on his own.
When are you at your happiest?
Sat around a table with friends and family, enjoying good food, wine and company (pre-pandemic).
What has been your biggest disappointment?
I’ve been very fortunate throughout my life and can’t recall ever being truly disappointed.
What is your guiltiest pleasure?
Pot noodles. I add ingredients like chilli, spring onion, fish sauce and toasted peanuts to jazz them up a bit.
What is your favourite smell?
Grapefruit shower gel.
Who would play you in a film about your life?
Ian McShane. Possibly the only role he hasn’t played, yet.
What public figures do you most admire?
David Attenborough is a firm favourite in my household.
Who is the most famous person on your phone?
That would be telling!
What are your best and worst qualities?
Best – I’m incredibly passionate about family and food. Worst – I sulk, especially after being told off by my wife.
What do you like most about Stroud?
The scenery. We are blessed to live in such a beautiful part of the country. the people of Stroud too.
What would you improve about Stroud?
The buildings as you drive into town. We have a fab town but every road leading into town has a tired hovel or eyesore – Tricorn House and the Market Tavern.
What is your ideal weekend?
A walk along the canal path with my family, fat Toni’s pizza, moules mariniere at William’s Kitchen, Winstones ice cream, Saturday night at the Retreat, a pint of budding and a Sunday roast at the Crown and Sceptre, more walking.
What is on your bucket list?
Learn to speak French (fluently), see my daughters grow up, and continue to be wonderful women.
What is the most important lesson life has taught you?
Be kind to people. An act of kindness goes further than you think.
What book and song would you take with you if stranded on an uninhabited island?
T.Rex ride a white swan and Lord of the Flies, for inspiration!
