Miso aubergine, Portuguese octopus, French lemonade

“I HAVE SUCH SPECIAL MEMORIES OF FAMILY BARBECUES, WITH DELICIOUS FOOD MADE WITH THOUGHTFULNESS AND LOVE”

Behind the scenes at Borough is a small team of dedicated professionals whose job it is to keep the wheels of this historic market turning. Most of them are completely obsessed with food, thanks in part to their daily exposure to exceptional produce and expert traders. We’ve asked them to share their thoughts on the ingredients and dishes that spark their excitement when summer rolls around.   

Chez Ramirez Vitalis is Borough Market’s Retail Team Leader, responsible for the overseeing the products, displays and impeccable customer service at The Borough Market Store.

What’s the item of summer produce you most look forward to?

I have a strong affinity for vegetables. Whether roasted, boiled, grilled or incorporated into a salad, I eagerly embrace any opportunity to enjoy them. Aubergine and courgette are my preferred summer vegetables, as they enhance the flavour and texture of simple dishes. I recently ate at Borough Market’s plant-based restaurant, Mallow, and it’s there that I first came across nasu dengaku – aubergine cooked in miso sesame glaze, with edamame lime cream. I was so impressed, I recreated it at home, and it was absolutely delightful.

Tell us about the most memorable meal you’ve ever eaten on a summer holiday. Where was it and what was it?

Last summer, my mother and I travelled to Porto, Portugal, and we still reminisce about one of the meals we had there. Being a seafood enthusiast, I always opt for fish whenever I’m near the coast. We dined at a bright, airy restaurant near the São João Baptista da Foz fortress, with breathtaking views of the blue Douro river. I had the grilled octopus leg served with smoked pepper cream, onions and carnaroli rice. It was impeccably seasoned, and the octopus simply melted in my mouth. It was an experience that left a lasting impression.

It’s a perfect barbecue day. Are you the one firing up the barbecue or part of the crowd sitting with a cold drink while someone else sweats over the coals?

I must admit, I’m always the one relaxing with my feet up! I’m more than happy to take charge of the music and drinks for everyone, but I’m not particularly keen on sweating over the coals on a scorching summer’s day. The thing I cherish most is how a barbecue unites my family. I have such special memories of my father gathering us all in the back garden while my siblings and I played games or kicked a ball around, with music playing a crucial role (my father is a DJ), and delicious, nourishing food being made with thoughtfulness and love. Growing up, it was always one of the highlights of my summer.

What’s your ultimate barbecue dish, either for cooking and eating?

It’s quite challenging to narrow it down! I do love smoky barbecued chicken, extra crispy on the edges, with a tangy, spicy sauce. This always complements well with some buttery corn on the cob. I love it when the corn is slightly charred, adding a smoky flavour to balance out the sweetness. Mostly, though, I love the communal aspect of barbecue cooking – the interaction and sharing.

If you were planning your ideal picnic, what foods from Borough Market would you add to your basket? 

My essential items include breads, cheeses, antipasti, sweets and drinks. I particularly enjoy Olivier’s Bakery’s ciabatta bread. When it comes to cheeses, I’d opt for ricotta cheese from Kappacasein and truffle cheese from Bath Soft Cheese Co for their rich, flavourful taste. As an olive enthusiast, I can’t resist the green olives with chermoula from The Turkish Deli. For sweets, it’s brownies from The Cinnamon Tree Bakery. Lastly, I’d choose The French Comte for their artisanal French sparkling lemonades from Alsace, which are fruity and refreshing on a summer day.

Where in London would you take your Borough Market picnic basket for an afternoon in the sun?

On one of the rare sunny days, I would bring my picnic to Tabard Gardens. It’s close to the market, less crowded than other spots in London even on a warm day, and offers stunning views of The Shard, particularly at sunset. A tranquil, pleasant setting for food and conversation.

What’s your summer sundown tipple of choice? In an ideal world, where would you be sitting to enjoy it?

As the summer sun goes down, my drink of choice is a refreshing and fruity Pimm’s. The blend of herbs, fruits and vegetables, with extra of mint and orange slices, perfectly embodies the spirit of summer for me. I’d savour it by Regent’s Canal – seated on a bench, watching people and boats go by while soaking up the sun by the water, allowing me to value my neighbourhood and feel a real sense of connection to London.