Sam Ashton-Booth, chef at Counter Culture

Meet Sam Ashton-Booth, chef at Counter Culture in Clapham – a true Stalwart to the core.

What’s special about Counter Culture? The restaurant’s unique set-up means I can interact with diners; it allows me to be creative with food, be on top of my game and keep surprising my customers.

Tell us about the ingredients used in your dishes We use fresh produce from my good friend Jake Ball’s allotment in Bedfordshire. He grows the most amazing veg throughout the year. As the seasons change, so do the veggies, and so does our menu, which I’ve called The Allotment. It is so exciting to cook only what is fresh from the harvest, showcasing the finest ingredients for our customers.

What do you think about Stalwart Craft’s leather knife roll? Mega! It’s beautiful and elegantly handcrafted. I love it and I want it now.

And our leather apron? Lovely; it’s a lot lighter than it looks which is amazing. It’s easy to work in, very comfortable to wear. Very smart and a beautiful colour.

What are your goals for next year? Keep cooking and keep creative. Offer good food, good wine and good hospitality. It’s great to prepare food in a relaxed atmosphere, and see people enjoying it.