What's cooking: Jonathan Rickard

Jonathan Rickard, owner of Circus Circus and Escape, says Mt Eden village is a great community to run his cafes in. Picture / Carolyn Robertson

Jonathan Rickard owns two cafes in Mt Eden village, the family-friendly Circus Circus and the more contemporary and pared-back Escape. He first experienced the hospitality industry as a hotel waiter while at university, but eight years ago he made it a fulltime job when he found the perfect site for a circus-themed cafe. With a loyal following at Circus Circus, two years ago he opened Escape up the road. A very different concept to Circus, it follows the same rules: excellent food and coffee, a great wine list and a high standard of service.

What do you like about your job?

Operating cafes is hard work but I love it. There are always new challenges in the hospitality industry. I really enjoy the contact I have with my customers. It is amazing how many regulars have formed friendships by meeting in the cafes for breakfast. Mt Eden village is a great community to run my businesses in.

Your idea of the perfect meal?

Well-presented food, well cooked and in a relaxed environment.

Your favourite drink?

To start the day, a great long black. In the evening, red wine. One of my favourites is Northrow pinot noir.

What do you eat when you can't be bothered cooking?

My home is two minutes' walk from Mt Eden village and there are great cafes and restaurants to choose from. Of course, my first choice is Circus Circus or Escape.

What do you always have in your fridge?

Bottles of good wine and cheeses, dips, salmon etc to go with the wine. We have frequent impromptu visits from friends who drop in because our house is on the main road to the village.

What cookbook are you reading at the moment?

Harold McGee's On Food and Cooking. It's not a normal cookbook, it's more of a scientific description of what happens to ingredients when they are mixed or cooked. It's fascinating. I discovered it at Cook the Books just two doors down from Escape.

Is there anything you wouldn't eat?

I'll give anything a try if it's cooked correctly.

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