About

Welcome!

Hey there! my name’s Neil and I am the creator of Cookin’Cabin!

I’m a trained chef with more than 20 years of experience in the food industry, from professional kitchens to teaching the next generation of chefs.

Cookin’Cabin is where I bring that experience together with my love of big, bold flavours. BBQ and grilling are at the heart of the site, alongside recipes, techniques and practical cooking know-how that can help you get more from your food.

Good cooking doesn’t need to be complicated. A few solid techniques, the right ingredients and a willingness to experiment can make a huge difference.

Where Did Your Love of Food Begin?

My love for cooking started early, inspired by my mother, who had a talent for creating incredible meals for friends and family. I spent my childhood observing her in the kitchen, often getting underfoot but soaking up her enthusiasm for food.

At 15, I left school to work as a kitchen assistant in a local restaurant. Those early experiences taught me the basics of food preparation and cooking techniques and solidified my passion for the culinary arts. Within a few months, I enrolled in a course to pursue my dream of becoming a professional chef.

What Experience do you Have in the Food Industry?

After graduating in 1988, I trained in Michelin-starred restaurants across France, working under renowned chefs like Alain Ducasse at the Hôtel de Paris in Monaco and the Troisgros family in Roanne. These experiences gave me a deep appreciation for fine dining and the techniques that elevate dishes to excellence.

For 15 years, I worked in esteemed restaurants in Hong Kong, London, and Switzerland. In 2006 after completing a Postgraduate Certificate in Education, I transitioned into teaching, becoming a senior chef lecturer at a culinary school where I had the privilege of training the next generation of chefs. After nine fulfilling years, I decided to shift gears to spend more time with my family.

What is Cookin’Cabin all About?

Cookin’Cabin is all about BBQ, grilling and big-flavour cooking. You’ll find recipes packed with flavour, from grilled meats and BBQ favourites to sauces, rubs, marinades, sides and plenty more beyond the grill.

Alongside the recipes, I share practical cooking tips and know-how drawn from years spent working in professional kitchens and teaching others how to cook.

The idea is simple: bring the heat, bring the flavour, and make food worth getting excited about.

Thanks for Reading!

Cookin’Cabin has changed a lot since I first started it, but my love of good food and cooking hasn’t. I’m looking forward to sharing more recipes, ideas and practical cooking knowledge as the site continues to grow.

Whether you’re firing up the grill, trying a new recipe or just looking for a little inspiration, I hope you find something here worth cooking.