30 Minutes With…Jason Leese, owner, Lakeside Fish and Chips, Poole, Dorset

How did you get into the industry?

I got into the industry very young at 14 years old in my parents’ shop in Bournemouth in 1985! Yes, I’m that old.

What’s your favourite food?

My favourite food is local Poole crab – dressed crab on a summer’s day is just perfect. 

Is there a food you won’t eat?

I won’t eat sashimi, no thanks.

Where have you had the best fish and chips? 

The best fish and chips are in Whitby. I did a busman’s holiday and the wife wasn’t impressed as she won’t eat beef or beef dripping being a Buddhist.

What side is a must with your fish and chips?

Homemade zingy tartare sauce.

If you could open a fish and chip shop anywhere, where would it be?

I’d like to open one in Singapore. It’s probably the cleanest, most diverse country I’ve visited. No decent chip shops though.

Do you have a favourite restaurant?

My local Thai restaurant Isan Thai. Being married to my wife who is from Thailand, we love this local authentic small restaurant.

What is your go-to drink?

I love a good coffee in the morning. My guilty pleasure is a McDonald’s Cappuccino.

What dish reminds you most of your childhood?

Egg custard tart. My grandad was a baker so that always takes me back to my childhood.

What one piece of equipment would you love to purchase for your business?

I would love a fresh fish display with ice for the restaurant so I could showcase our local catches.