The Biscuit sits down with the head chef at The Last Talisman, Francesco Braccino, to find out about the SE1 restaurant’s new à la carte menu
1. Why did you want to become a chef?
I’ve had a deep passion for cooking since I was a child, and owe this passion to my father, who had been working in Asia for many years. Thanks to him, I had the incredible opportunity to visit China at a young age, and it was there that I truly fell in love with cooking.
Inspired by the experience, I embarked on a journey to study Asian cuisines and cultures, and after graduating from Boscolo Etoile Academy in 2014, I decided to relocate to London, where I have been working across various Asian restaurants since.
2. How would you describe the ‘Talisman Twist’?
My culinary approach and techniques revolve around utilising simple yet the finest ingredients to ensure the best possible quality. I strive to create harmonious and contrasting taste combinations that amplify the sensory experience.
By carefully selecting the complementary and contrasting elements, I aim to maximise the sensation of each dish I create. So, the Talisman Twist embodies my techniques, with a fusion of Asian flavours.
3. What ingredient do you think elevates any dish?
Goma sauce. Also known as sesame sauce or sesame dressing, it’s a versatile and delicious condiment commonly found in Asian cuisine. It’s a nutty and slightly sweet flavour, along with a tangy kick, and it makes an excellent accompaniment for a wide range of dishes.
It’s often used as a dipping sauce for various appetizers, as a dressing for salads, or as a sauce for noodles and vegetables. Its ability to complement both cold and warm dishes makes it a popular choice for all seasons.
Whether you use it with a fresh green salad, as a dipping sauce for sushi, drizzled over cold noodles, or served alongside grilled vegetables, Goma sauce adds a delightful taste that can elevate any dish it accompanies.
4. If you could form your perfect menu from the new dishes – what would it be?
I’d choose the pork belly and salmon teriyaki large plates and the asparagus side as my perfect menu of dishes from our à new la carte menu.
5. Lastly, which cocktail would you choose to have alongside your chosen menu?
The Nemesis Margarita – The Last Talisman’s bar team’s spin on a margarita using Ocho Blanco tequila. It has a spicy kick from the added hot sauce, with a citrusy twist from the lime, pairing perfectly with any of the dishes from our new menu with their highlighted Asian ingredients incorporated.
171-173 Bermondsey Street, SE1 3UW
