Talk about a delicious pairing: to celebrate the launch of our new, expertly curated culinary collection, we asked photography icon Martin Parr to step into the kitchen of Nobu Portman Square with his unmistakable lens. Fiery moments, quiet prep corners and deft kitchen choreography ensued…
The Magnum Photos icon shares his British must-sees, his photo nemesis and why the Trevi Fountain is his Everest
You’ve photographed everything from tins of spam and seaside chips to haute cuisine. Why is documenting food so compelling to you?
I have always enjoyed shooting food. Usually junk food makes better images than posh food!
What did you observe behind the scenes of Nobu Portman Square that diners would never see?
The care that is taken to put the food together and arrange it on the plate.
If you were to curate a travel guide to the UK, which three destinations would you include and why?
Tenby, the best seaside resort; Edinburgh, the most beautiful city; and the Orkneys — fantastic islands.
Is there a destination that is still on your bucket list?
I’ve always wanted to visit Iran but [haven’t been able to] get a visa.
Do you have a photographic nemesis – something that’s so far eluded your camera?
I keep going to the Trevi Fountain in Rome but just keep failing [to get the shot].
What are you excited about right now?
I am topping up my British archive — this will be my legacy.
Martin Parr’s book, ‘Utterly Lazy and Inattentive’, is out now
Room for more? Explore our collection of culinary hotels, foodie experiences and insider guides