This week on The Drip Tray Diaries, we dive into the behind-the-scenes chaos of kitchen life, including a seriously close call with a near fryer fire.

We also chat about more price rises heading our way, with wage increases and higher National Insurance costs piling even more pressure onto the hospitality industry.

There’s a bit of talk about the upcoming new food concept at The Kings Head Docklow, and of course Gracie calls us out for being “old” because we enjoy doing a jigsaw.

But maybe that’s the real question… in today’s always-online, disconnected society, is switching off and doing something simple exactly what we all need?

a slightly unhinged episode this one with some audio issues after the cut scene in the middle!

In this episode of The Drip Tray Diaries Ashley, Elliot & Gracie are joined by former Kings Head Docklow chef Olly.

Since leaving the pub, Olly has been working in large wedding venues across Essex — which means he’s seen everything from smooth services to full-blown wedding chaos.

We talk about the pressure of cooking for hundreds of guests, bridezillas, bizarre wedding requests, and the strange story involving Cat Impersonators.

We try a listener's strange drink combo!

But it’s not all laughs — we also discuss the realities of working in hospitality and some of the challenges the industry faces.

If you’ve ever worked in a kitchen, pub, or event venue… this one will feel very familiar.

If you missed last weeks go checkout our tales from the taproom of the Ludlow brewery. where we talk craft ales, local events, brewing beer and everything in-between

In this episode of The Drip Tray Diaries, we sit down with Bill from Ludlow Brewery to uncover the story behind one of the region’s best-loved breweries. We talk about how the brewery began, the thinking behind their beer styles, and how sustainability plays a huge role in everything they do. Bill breaks down the basics of brewing in plain English – from grain to glass – and shares the stories and local history hidden in some of Ludlow Brewery’s iconic beer names. A brilliant listen whether you’re a real ale enthusiast or just enjoy knowing what’s actually in your pint.