MEET THE CHEF: Alan Bates of Connection by Alan Bates in Copenhagen, Denmark
We sat down with Executive Chef Alan Bates of Connection by Alan Bates. Connection might be Copenhagen's smallest gourmet restaurant, and many of the guests say that they feel at home. Perhaps, it’s because everyone is seated around three Chef’s tables: each with room for a total of 6 guests. This means that you will share your experience with the other guests around the table. Maybe you’ll make new friends?
Image: Chef Alan Bates of Connection by Alan Bate in Copenhagen, Denmark
The dishes are based on an extremely seasonal approach, and we only work with the finest ingredients. Our menu changes regularly to represent the best of what is in season right now.
Tell us about what your morning routine looks like, and how you like to end your day?
My morning routine starts around 7am and after a black coffee I head out for a run, which depending on the day ahead could be anywhere from 3-15 km. I’m very lucky to live close to the water in Copenhagen, so every day I have a swim post run before heading in to shower.
Image: Connection by Alan Bate in Copenhagen, Denmark
The final thing I do before heading to Connection is take my chocolate Labrador Lucy out for a long walk, it’s the perfect end to a great morning.
Do you have any awards or achievements you’d like to mention?
I’m proud of everything we have achieved as such a small team - I’m only as good as the team I’ve surrounded myself with and I couldn’t be more proud of them. We’re small and mighty, and I feel like our best has yet to come. Being recognised in the Michelin guide has been surreal, but to be completely honest as long as my mum is proud then I am happy!
Do you have a favorite chef that you look up to and what advice would you give to aspiring chefs?
I really look up to Tom Kerridge, Jonny Lake and Paul Cunningham, and I’m very lucky to have been able to work for them all and to count them as friends. They are all phenomenal chefs in their own right, but they are also great guys, really some of the finest in the industry.
Image: Connection by Alan Bate in Copenhagen, Denmark
My only advice to aspiring chefs would be to work hard. Hard work beats talent every time in the long term.
What do you typically cook at home for yourself or your family?
At home my favourite thing to cook is pizza. Some friends clubbed together and got my wife and I an Ooni pizza oven as a wedding present - I use it all the time. My favourite pizza to make is ‘nduja and broccoli, I love it!
What’s a food trend that you’re loving right now and why?
I’m really happy that we are seeing a return to people using small scale local producers and farmers. I hope it is not a trend though and a change in consumer habits that leads to more sustainable agriculture practices.
Image: Connection by Alan Bate in Copenhagen, Denmark
What’s that strangest food combination you’ve ever tried? And, did you like it?
Is it strange if it works? We have a seabuckthorn and coffee drink on our non-alcoholic offering, it’s unusual but it works super well!
What’s your Instagram handle so that readers can follow you?
They are @Alan.g.bates and @Connectioncph.
Image: Connection by Alan Bate in Copenhagen, Denmark
What cocktail or beverage do you enjoy most?
I stopped drinking alcohol about 12 months ago so I really love a glass of amazing apple juice. Or there is this incredible cherry cordial that tastes like Amarena cherries that I get from a local Italian deli. I’ve also had a great non-alcoholic cocktail recently from Ruby’s called “no whiskey for breakfast.”
Have you ever cooked for a celebrity? Do you have a story to tell?
I’ve cooked for quite a few famous chefs, Tom Kerridge, Paul Ainsworth, Heston Blumenthal, and Jonny Lake to name a few. Luckily they all loved it, no more story than that!
Image: Connection by Alan Bate in Copenhagen, Denmark
Tell our readers why they should visit Connection by Alan Bates in Copenhagen?
They should visit because we are an intimate little restaurant in the heart of Copenhagen with a small and dedicated staff who are 100% committed to making sure that you have an memorable evening you won’t forget!
Note: This information was accurate when this article was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
