Stephen Gibson, former head chef of L’Ecrivain Restaurant, founded the award-winning Dublin restaurant Pichet in 2009. This year, it celebrates its 15th birthday.
Are you a spender or a saver?
A bit of both. I’ve always been good at saving – well, until the kids came along. My parents always taught me to respect money and to save for something instead of borrowing. I have always thought that was very good advice.
Do you shop around for better value?
Absolutely. I’m a bargain hunter, which is something that has been drilled into me from my job. I always use price comparison sites before buying more expensive things, too. I forgot to mention that I am also a researcher!
What purchases have you made that you consider the best value for money?
Without a doubt, my specialised ebike. I cycle in and out of work every day. I cycled around 7,000km last year – I find it’s a great way to unwind after a crazy day at the restaurant.
Do you haggle over prices?
I wouldn’t haggle when shopping on the high street, but when I bought my car I tried my very best to haggle on the price.
Cash or card?
I never carry cash; I always use my card via my phone.
How did Covid-19 change your spending habits?
I never really bought clothes online before Covid, but now I do it a lot. I still make a point to try my best to buy from Irish sites and support local businesses when and where I can. Buying online is a real convenience matter more than anything, and when you’re pushed for time, it can be very handy.
Do you invest in shares?
Unfortunately not, but I’d love to give it a go as a hobby first. I’d try by starting small. When I opened Pichet, I started a pension, which is probably one of the smarter things I’ve done.
What was the last thing you bought and was it good value?
A Leeds United away kit for my son – and yes, I got a bargain end-of-season price.
Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?
The deposit for our first house took a lot of dedication and nights in. I think that’s an achievement for many people, and I have to say it was worth it.
Have you ever lost money?
In 2007, when I worked in Paris, I lost an entire week’s wages. That feeling of knowing you’ve just worked for free all week – it really hurt. Also, I bought my first house in 2007, so I couldn’t have timed it any worse.
Are you a gambler and if so have you ever had a big win?
Not really. I play the EuroMillions lottery now and again. It’s nice to dream, but in reality, I know how hard I have to work for my money.
Is money important to you?
It’s important from the point of view that you need money to have a certain lifestyle. For me, to have just enough money not to have to worry and be able to enjoy time with your family is the thing.
How much money do you have on you now?
None! I haven’t carried money for a few years. It’s just too convenient to use my phone.
In conversation with Tony Clayton-Lea
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