My name is Olivia Lacey. I have worked professionally as a cook since 2005 when I trained in Ireland at the wonderful Ballymaloe School with Darina Allen followed by a summer cooking in West Cork. Since then I have worked in kitchens all over the world, from directors dining rooms to a shed in Devon. My cooking style is very informal, firmly rooted in traditional British food but influenced by my travels, in particularly in Southeast Asia.
These days I mainly spend my time running The Feast of Reason and organising events and holidays for small groups, with a focus on food and meeting new people. I also cater for festivals, parties, and informal weddings. Please email me on olivia (at) finsharky.com if you would like sample menus (including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free or dairy-free) and an estimate of costs for your party or event. I can provide waiters, and people to wash up.
“Sensational food as always and your staff were a hit as well.” AB, Food for Birthday Party for 25 people, June 2015
“Thanks so much for the delicious canapés – you are very clever!” RY, Canapes Party for 100 people, November 2014
“The dinner was a big success from what I’ve heard. Everyone was really delighted with the food and I got some leftovers the next day! So no doubt you’ll be hearing from us again about future dinners.” JM, Buffet Supper for 55 people, summer 2014
“Hi Olivia – thanks so much for last night. The food was great as were the staff and contributed to a really enjoyable evening.” SG, Birthday Party for 80 people, June 2013
People often ask me for recipes, in particular recipes that work well for groups, and so I have posted a few here. Many of the recipes are for large numbers (anything from 20 to 150).