OF all the attributes Ryan Devlin brings to his cooking, making good use of space is key to his present role.
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Since April, Devlin has been the chef at Rita’s Kitchen, an East Albury restaurant nestled on a suburban corner.
“I don’t have to walk a lot, that’s for sure,” he said of his work area.
“I’m limited in my space in the kitchen.
“At the start it was quite daunting so when big tables come in you get a bit nervous, a bit rattled but you can only do what you can do.
“It’s good having that relationship with the customers where we can come out and talk and not feel like you're stuck out the back hiding.”
Devlin, 22, was raised and did his apprenticeship in Albury, with his career including stints at Green Zebra, The Bended Elbow, Lavington’s Northside Hotel and Quality Resort Siesta Albury.
Having grown up helping his mother cook, he said he liked the social side of his profession.
“I just like being able to serve food to people and them being happy with it, it’s a nice reward for what we do,” he said.
In this way, Rita’s Kitchen is ideal with its cosy feel and many regulars.
“All the customers are really friendly, they introduce themselves,” he said.
“It’s got that bit more of a personal feel to it.”
Devlin planned to keep on gaining industry experience.
“I want to get to a stage where I could comfortably walk into any job and do it,” he said.
What’s your favourite dish?
I’d have to say rabbit pie. Mum’s always made it and it’s sort of a family speciality.
What are the staples in your pantry?
Rice, pasta, chilli and good olive oil.
What’s your secret vice?
I can’t help myself when it comes to halloumi, I have to have a bit for myself.
What is your recipe standby?
Zucchini soup, I love it. It’s an old family recipe that just works well and everyone seems to love it. It’s easy to do and puts smiles on people's faces.
What is your most unforgettable meal and where?
The beef cheek we had at MoVida, a Spanish restaurant in Sydney.
What’s your favourite cooking utensil?
A good set of tongs.
What’s in your kitchen toolkit?
Knives, grater, stick blender and a good spatula.
What did you have for dinner last night?
Corned beef with roast vegetables and white sauce, cooked by my mother.
What are you drinking?
Jack Daniels
Details:
Rita's Kitchen, 1/342 Rau Street, East Albury.
Phone: 0420 404 087
