Andrea Camastra: The Chef with Jekyll & Hyde Mastery, Continuing His Winning Streak at Nuta!

For those that don’t know, Andrea co-owns probably Warsaw’s #1 restaurant, NUTA. He is not only an owner but a world-class chef whose awards probably outnumber even the great Messi himself. Andrea perfected his culinary skills in the world’s best restaurants, including in Italy, France, and Great Britain. Even more impressive is, he is a member of “The Oxford Encyclopedia” for the highest achievement of a lifetime. next to some great names like Albert Einstein. I kid you not!

He was also on the list of 100 Best Chefs in the World in 2019 according to the prestigious French “La Liste”, published by “Le Chef”. Even the Italian government has said he is one of the most talented and successful professionals outside Italy of the past century. We met up with Andrea to dig deeper into his personality and set up an unusual ‘hot seat’ type of interview and asked him 30 quick-fire questions. Something we knew he was not familiar with. These were the results!

Who owns Nuta?

Me and a partner. 50/50

What time do you get up in the mornings?

9 am. I never go to sleep before 3 am though!

Tell me, is food sexy?

Of course. It’s very sexy!

What three ingredients are super sexy for you?

Probably not what you expect. Mozzarella, the protein really gets you going, watermelon, and truffles.

How long do you spend prepping food every day?

7-8 hrs prep and 5-6 hrs service

Are you like Gordon Ramsey, shouting all the time?

I used to be. Even worse! Nowadays, I have been working with my brigade for about seven years so we are a tight family.

How many people have you sacked over the years?

Probably more than 200. It took that many people to create the brigade I have today!

Congratulations on the Michelin Star. Can you get 2 stars in one shot?

No. You start at one then two etc

Is it important for you to get another Michelin star?

I don’t work for the awards. Stars though are recognition of my brigade and their futures.

Is it possible to trust your brigade 100%?

I trust them 101%

Are they scared of you?

No, rather intimidated. They know exactly where the line is.

You seem very calm. Would you say you have a Jekyll and Hide character?

Hahaha. That’s actually a pretty accurate description of me!

What annoys you the most?

Careless, dirty, and emotionless people.

Can any of your current brigade be top chefs?

Most of them already are.

How much does a top chef earn in Poland?

On average between 10-15000 PLN per month.

Which chef inspires you?

Myself. I’m my favorite chef hahaha.

Is Magda Gessler one of Polands top chefs?

No. It’s just for show. Even she will admit that. She is very good at what she does though. Back in the day, she also exposed foreign cuisine to Polish people which was groundbreaking at the time.

What gives you the most satisfaction?

I have seen a few people crying in the restaurant which is incredible. Also the team I have built. I’m very proud of them!

How many times has somebody complained about your food?

It’s never happened.

Describe in one word your current menu.

Complete.

Does your girlfriend cook when you are at home?

Hahaha. I have never seen her cooking

Add you?

Never. My girlfriend and I only order takeaways!

Really? What do you normally order?

We are both crazy about Indian food so we order it nearly every time.

Can you recommend a couple of places?

Sure. The Cuming Club, Mr. India, or India Summers. A good Goan Fish curry, bhuna, or Rogan Josh. We love it!

When was the last time you ate Mcdonald’s?

Hahaha. About 3 months ago. Its a once a year thing though. We were driving and there was nothing else around.

Final question. I heard you were a boxer back in the day. Is it true?

Hahaha. Yes. I used to box in Lennox Lewis’s old gym. I quit when I got injured.

What was your record?

15-1

Wow! I wouldn’t expect anything less from you. It’s been a pleasure meeting you. Did you have fun and how can people reserve a seat at your restaurant?

Hahaha. It was different for sure! The pleasure was all mine. You can call us by phone at 570 007 772 or online Everybody is welcome!