King's Lynn chef James will teach you how by Zoom

Ex-Michelin ‘chef at home’ James Howe has taken advantage of lockdown by launching his own Zoom and YouTube tutorials to teach the public the secrets of his de luxe menu.

For four years, James, 29, has provided an at home dinner party service for special occasions, but the virus has stalled his once successful business.

As we are seeing more and more innovation and adaptation to Covid-era life, James is the latest on the list of professionals who want to keep on thriving, despite restrictions.

James said: “Covid19 has taken away the human element of what we do, it’s a shame because the hospitality industry is a sector that works so hard but when there’s a lockdown we are the first to close, along with hairdressers.

"Being a private chef is something that I miss, it’s almost like being part of the family. I hope to recreate that atmosphere in my Zoom and YouTube tutorials.”

James started his career at the age of 22 as a commis chef and eventually moved up the ranks to a Yorkshire Michelin restaurant called Star.

James was inspired to start this business as he was "keen to get back to the stove".

“When you move up the ranks you cook less, so starting a YouTube channel allowed me to be creative. For my tutorials I will be doing the customer favourites: Spinach and ricotta ravioli with sage butter, beef wellington with celeriac mash paired with a Guinness reduction and of course fan-fave sticky toffee pudding.

"I would describe myself as a British chef with French techniques and Yorkshire portions!”

“People are still trying to celebrate birthdays and anniversaries, with this venture I hope I can make everyone have a laugh, a great time and forget about the virus. I want them to enjoy high end food even though they can’t dine out.”

James said he is hoping to launch on Monday, with booking to be made available on his website www.chefathomebyjameshowe.com/.