Quotes from Monica Galetti

When we visit New Zealand for family holidays, one of my first stops is to buy fresh mussels.

I still remember the first time I made a bread roll. For me it was the most amazing thing.

The food culture that has most impressed me is Oman's. I learned to make an amazing spice mix that they rub into goat and fish meat, and ate the best flatbreads.

I use charcoal in lots of things at Mere, from bread and choux to batters and sauces. I like the shock factor of the intense black colour without it tainting the curry spices, which happens when you use squid ink.

It's all about a beautiful table on Christmas day. I put out lovely napkins and napkin holders, and maybe put a wreath in the centre. I like to dish all the veg up into massive serving platters, for everyone to help themselves - it feels so abundant.

When I was growing up, the Roux brothers, Michel's father and uncle, Albert and Michel Sr, they were my idols. I regarded them as royalty.

Auckland's a big city but they don't have an underground system. Buses or taxis are your only options and taxis are not cheap in Auckland. Your best bet might be to hire a rental car.

When I drive through London at night I think: 'Gosh this is such a beautiful city.'

It takes me a long time to unwind when I'm on holiday - at least three or four days.

Fresh, ripe cocoa is amazing. It's so sweet but if you eat too much you get a sore stomach.

I feel safe in Auckland but it's best to be careful in any city. There's the odd pickpocket like anywhere else but if you're street-smart, you'll be okay.

I take jobs when I can take them, sometimes you can't control it and everything comes in at one time.

Some people find the appearance of cuttlefish off-putting, but I think this lesser eaten fish is really exciting and versatile. It's similar to squid or octopus and should either be cooked quickly on a high heat or very low and slow until it's tender.

I coped OK with eating guinea pig, while staying at the stunning Mashpi Lodge, up in the cloud forest of Ecuador - but that's because mine was all cut up and served nicely.

At a certain point, women have to decide how much they want their career versus having a family and spending time with family.

I love open water diving and first tried it in Vanuatu.

As a child I loved to be in the kitchen with my mum and aunties, eavesdropping on the adults.

I think people took a while to accept me for who I am, and I've learnt to articulate myself better when on camera.

I had four brothers and a sister, and there was always a lot of family around, so the house was loud and lively. I'm from an island background; it's all about family.