Award winning chef turned international restaurateur with a taste for the Far East gives U an insight into his 'perfect day' as Zuma London celebrates its 15th birthday

How do you start your day? 

I am a pretty early riser so I usually work out a little in the gym and spend time with my youngest daughter before heading off to work. I bike to work which gives me some time to get my thoughts together and prepare myself for the day ahead!

Leisurely lunch go to? 

I love Italian food and one of my favourites is the River Café. There is nothing better than a long weekend lunch there with my wife and two daughters. Maybe a glass of Champagne to start and a good bottle of red throughout lunch. Heaven! 

Favourite way to pass the time in London? 

I love art and architecture so I would definitely spend several hours in a gallery – probably The National. Cycling is a favourite hobby of mine and I enjoy regularly cycling around Richmond Park. In the evening I would go to a concert – we recently saw U2 who were amazing.

Favourite London landmarks, and why? 

St Paul's specifically at night time is magnificent….. And obviously The Shard!

Tipple of choice and favourite cocktail hangout? 

I’m afraid I am not a big drinker and definitely way past going to cocktail bars but I certainly would never say no to a glass of red.

Favourite dining destinations, and why? 

My favourite local restaurant is Riva in Barnes, we eat there regularly and the food and service is excellent. For the high street I think Pizza Express is great, they are incredibly consistent and perfect for dining with children. On the fancy side I have to say La Petite Maison and The Ledbury, I have never had a bad meal at either and they are both run by incredibly talented chefs.

Final stop for a nightcap, and why? 

Again, I am not one for staying out until the early hours but if I had to choose I would say The Arts Club. The 2 bars there are great and the nightclub has incredibly live music.

Rest hangover remedy? 

I am German so I would have to say Currywurst from Herman ze German on Charlotte Street. 

Where next on your travels? 

For a holiday I am heading off to Turkey at the weekend for a short trip and I hope to return to Sardinia soon; I went last year and fell in love with the island. For work I am travelling to the USA & Middle East soon to visit the teams.

Rainer Becker is the German chef behind some of the world's most stylish and acclaimed Japanese restaurants. Since launching the Zuma concept in 2002, Becker has successfully expanded to 11 venues internationally over the last 15 years and is also behind the award winning Roka restaurants and also Oblix in The Shard.

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