In this episode, James sits down with Carlo Scotto, Chef patron of Bear at The Crazy Bear in Beaconsfield, one of the most intimate and imaginative Chef's table experiences in the UK.

Carlo speaks about his extraordinary journey from a chaotic childhood in Naples to finding purpose in the kitchen after a life-changing encounter with a Michelin-starred chef. Cooking became his path to discipline, creativity, and redemption, and this conversation explores how those early experiences shaped his philosophy today.

James and Carlo discuss his early life, the loss and anger that defined his childhood, and how the kitchen gave him structure and direction. They explore his move to London and his time working with chefs such as Angela Hartnett, as well as what makes the Bear chef's table so unique and immersive. Carlo explains the team's daily routine, their commitment to seasonality, and their dedication to celebrating British produce while blending global influences from Japan, Scandinavia, India, France, and beyond.

The conversation also touches on the importance of supporting small local producers, and how ingredients like maple syrup inspire both sweet and savoury dishes. Carlo shares nostalgic food memories from his upbringing in Naples, including chestnuts and freshly baked bread, and reflects on why Beaconsfield is the perfect location for a destination restaurant. The result is an inspiring and heartfelt discussion that reveals how personal history and cultural heritage can shape a chef's creative vision.

Follow www.instagram.com/maplecanadauk/ and visit Maple from Canada UK website https://www.maplefromcanada.co.uk/ for more seasonal recipe inspiration