Brian Maule embraces new challenges after restaurant closure

Glasgow Times

a day ago

Taking place in May this year, the first of the events at Glaschu on Royal Exchange Square saw Maule collaborate with the venue's head chef, Graeme Brown, for a five-course tasting menu that marries a touch of French flair with the best of local produce.
After tickets sold out in 'record time', the chefs were inspired to join forces once more, with two further dinners set to take place on Wednesday, August 6 and Thursday, August 7.
Pictured: Chef Brian Maule returns to Glaschu for two exclusive dinner events this week (Image: Supplied)
"I am absolutely delighted to be back at one of my favourite restaurants in the city to showcase some of Scotland's finest summer produce," Maule said of the upcoming events.
"The last two were very successful, and it was so nice to see so many familiar faces of people who have followed me over the last 20 or so years.
"There's a great atmosphere at these nights and we keep it professional, but relaxed.
"I come out to talk about the menu, then we have the guy from the wine company we partner with do the same with the drinks.
"It works really well, and there's a wee bit of an educational element to it without going too in depth."
Previously he had taken on a new role with Ayrshire-based hospitality group, Buzzworks, as he sought to pass on his skills to a new generation of culinary talent in Scotland.
Though this contract has recently come to an end, consultancy work and collaborations with restaurants such as Glaschu mean that the chef is still rarely far away from professional kitchens.
'I've been really busy this past year, and working with various companies has meant that no two days have been the same.
'I get to go around different kitchens and meet new people, from chefs to owners, which is great.
'I'm still learning how best to deal with the individual needs of each business, but I'm enjoying that challenge and always looking out for the next opportunity.'
Pictured: Maule has said he is 'absolutely delighted' to join forces with the team at Glaschu for a second time (Image: Supplied)
Asked how his current work differs from more than two decades at the helm of his own restaurant, Le Chardon d'Or, before its shock closure in 2023, Maule said: 'Obviously, my own place will always be at the back of my mind, even though it's not there anymore.
'I miss it, but with the difficulties our industry has been facing at the moment, the past year has been far less stressful than the few prior.
"I'm enjoying doing something different."
Those attending this week's wine dinners at Glaschu will enjoy a menu that draws inspiration from some of Maule's favourite creations at Le Chardon d'Or, with dishes such as confit chicken bon bon, marinated cured salmon fillet, ragu of king prawns and Venison Wellington.
Pictured: Glaschu's head chef, Graeme Brown (Image: Supplied) 'I have always admired Brian, and we've had a lot of fun with the menu development for the May events,' Glaschu's head chef Graeme Brown said of their joint effort to create the five-course tasting experience.
'We can't wait to share an unforgettable experience with our guests, filled with exceptional flavours, creativity, and great company.'
Marshall Bass, territory manager from Enotria & Coe, Glaschu's wine partner, added: 'I am delighted and tremendously honoured to be a part of this event with Brian and Glaschu for a third and fourth time.
'The menu looks fantastic, as expected, and I am relishing the opportunity to don my sommelier cap again.
'The combination of Brian's culinary jewels with some of Enotria's top wine offerings, set in Glaschu's idyllic dining room, should make for an unforgettable night."
Glaschu is located at 32 Royal Exchange Square in Glasgow.
For further updates on upcoming events, visit glaschurestaurant.co.uk.