Secret Service

Secret Service is a no-holds-barred look at the service industry: its highs, its lows, the eccentric characters. From dangerous liaisons under dining tables to after-hours punch-ups, the UK's most famous maitre-d' Fred Sirieix spills the beans on this edgy industry in the front-of-house reply to Anthony Bourdain's Kitchen Confidential. With over 25 years' experience of charming guests at the world's top restaurants, Fred has seen it ALL. He can tell you how to get a table at a restaurant that's booked solid for months ahead, how to secure the best seat in the room, how to spot when you're being 'upsold'. And he's got all the gossip on what goes on behind the scenes - the furious paddling under the surface while the waiting staff glide effortlessly around the dining room. Fascinating, funny and touching, Fred's natural empathy, charm and candour make this an essential read for anyone who's ever stepped foot inside a restaurant - and he will inspire anyone ambitious to be a part of this extraordinary industry.