Olly Smith is a uniquely enthusiastic British TV presenter, wine expert, foodie and writer, probably most famed for his column in The Mail on Sunday and his appearances on BBC1’s Saturday Kitchen.
What he doesn’t know about wine is not worth knowing, so what better man to have sharing his expertise in the Parade Ring Restaurant at Royal Ascot?
Olly Smith meets the Queen
Olly, what’s your role as part of the Sodexo team at Royal Ascot?
“Every dish created for guests in the Parade Ring Restaurant is immaculate and the chefs’ attention to detail is second to none. My role has been to match the perfect wines to each of those dishes to give every guest a truly sensational experience.
I have focused on making sure there is a wine to suit every palette and am spending time talking to guests about the wines I’ve chosen and why.
I’ve visited every table in the restaurant to talk with guests about the wines and, if they want to go off piste and select a different wine, I’ll give them my recommendations. It’s all about the personal touch and giving guests an experience they will never forget.”
What has been the highlight so far?
“It’s only the second day and already there have been some hugely memorable moments! Seeing Her Majesty the Queen walking across the way from the Parade Ring Restaurant to the Royal Box was truly electrifying.
I was standing with a lady who had come all the way from New Zealand, especially for this moment, but as soon as the photo opportunity presented itself, her camera died! I took a photo myself and emailed it to her straight away. It made her day!
What was also thrilling to see was, when everyone was on the balcony watching the Queen arrive in the Royal procession, they all had a glass of wine in their hand!”
What do you think makes Royal Ascot so special?
“It’s a huge event steeped in pageantry and tradition, where guests can enjoy fantastic food and great wine. What’s more, at the Parade Ring Restaurant, Her Majesty the Queen effectively visits the restaurant several times a day. Where else does that happen? It truly is a unique experience.”
Is this the first time you’ve worked with Sodexo at Royal Ascot?
“It is and I hope it’s the first of many. Who knows, in 10 years’ time, I might be as much of a regular at Royal Ascot as the monarch herself!”
