At the County Press, we are shining a spotlight on Isle of Wight chefs and finding out all about their kitchens, dishes and inspirations.

Last time, we spoke to Ronnie Fletcher, head chef of The Woodmans Arms in Wootton about slow-cooking and the pub's new menu.

This week, we headed to Sandown to speak to Jarek, chef at the historic landmark The Bandstand.

What was the first meal you cooked for someone else?

(Image: Contributed)

This is a very difficult question.

If I remember correctly, one of the first dishes I cooked was a pork chop with potatoes and sauerkraut salad.

What is your proudest career moment to date?

My greatest pride in work is seeing the happy faces of customers as they leave the restaurant at the end of the day.

(Image: Contributed)

What's your favourite dish on the menu at The Bandstand?

My favourite dish on the menu at the moment is the crab dumplings.

Where’s your favourite place to eat on the Isle of Wight?

The list of places where I like to eat on the Island would be too long, so I'll just say that my favourite place to eat is my home.

What’s your favourite dish to cook at home?

My favourite dish I like to make at home is probably pierogi, which is a dumpling made by wrapping unleavened dough around a filling and cooked in boiling water.

They are usually flavoured with savoury or sweet garnish. 

(Image: Contributed)

What key ingredient is always on hand for you?

The first thought that comes to my mind is rice and pasta.

What’s your culinary guilty pleasure?

I think my culinary weakness is desserts, unfortunately, I can't eat them so my only option is to prepare them.

What’s your favourite Island ingredient or delicacy to use?

That's a tricky question.

I think my favourite product would be Isle of Wight Tomatoes.

Also, as a unique product, I think Bembridge Harbour prawns are my favourite. 

The Bandstand has added a stage to its offering, so live music can be enjoyed and events can be held.

Patron is West End star Earl Carpenter.