Greg Thompson, Apollo Inn
What is your role at Apollo Inn and what does this involve?
I’m the Assistant Bar Manager at Apollo Inn and have worked within Trader House for almost three years. I came on board at Gimlet as Head of Prep before moving into a supervisory role.
What has been your journey in hospitality prior to joining Apollo Inn?
I fell in love with hospitality when I worked in London and Manchester before working as the Bar Manager at Dinner by Heston.
What's the best part of your job?
There are so many facets that are so joyful. There’s the satisfaction you get when you know a guest has had an amazing experience and returns for more. There’s also the creative side of it. It can go in so many directions - particularly in drink development. I love seeing an idea turn into a drink in someone’s glass.
Who has inspired, or mentored you in your career?
Darren Leaney was my mentor at Dinner By Heston. He’s often regarded as one of the most influential bartenders in the last 10 years. He has incredible creativity, but is also so organised, structured and methodical. His rigorous approach really helped me to set up the way I work.
I’m also inspired by David Beckham - fashionista, family man and my all-time hero.
What advice would you give someone thinking of embarking on a career in hospitality?
It’s important to recognise that it’s an ever-evolving industry - you really can’t just read one book. Hospitality requires you to be on your feet, expect change and you always need to keep evolving. Remember to be passionate about what you’re doing and that will translate into what you have with your guests and colleagues. Go out and explore the restaurants that you enjoy and bring that back to work!
What’s next for you in your career?
One day, I’d love to own a very small venue like a wine bar. Kind of like Apollo Inn in that it would have a small, concise menu. In the short term, I plan to move into nutrition and dietetics - it really ties into my time with Heston, having a scientific approach to what we eat and drink. I love answering the question ‘How do things make up the sum of their parts?’