Markos Papakonstantinou is born and raised in the island and he proves his affection for the island at every chance.
With silvery and cooking studies, today he works on chef Akis Petretzikis’ side and he has managed to turn his hobby into main occupation. Let’s get to know him better!
- What is that you have found in cooking that has won your preference?
The truth is I have always wanted to be occupied with my hobby that is why I decided to study the art of cooking. My first job as a cook was at chef Giannis Loukakos’ restaurant. However, my urge for something different led me on Akis Petretzikis’ side who has created an innovative cooking lab, the “Kitchen Lab”.
Every day there, we try out new savors, we experiment and evolve the traditional recipes into more special ones! This is one of the most creative parts of my job! I feel lucky to work with remarkable and talented people like Akis and the rest of the team.
- Born & raised in Tinos?
I feel blessed that I was born and raised there. This island depicts all my childhood, school time, my friends, playing on the streets, the carefree summers along with the endless hours by the sea and the dives from the rocks. This is the reason why I always find a few days during my vacations to go back to the island.
- How does it feel to be working for media these days? A few words for your experience in Akis’ show.
Working these days for a channel is really important, not only concerning the work you’ve been doing over there but also what you’ve been offering to the public watching you. The show is just a part of my work; the preparation that lies behind that is truly important so as these delicious results to find their way on the show. Still, no matter how many hours you work off camera, the experience and stress of showing a recipe on camera is an entirely different thing.
Nevertheless, it was a real fun when I was given the opportunity to cook with Akis in front of the camera, although we cook every day together trying out new recipes.
- What Tinos means to you? What is the first thought coming to your mind once you listen to this name?
For me, Tinos is my homeland, my love, my own point of reference on the map. Every time that I listen to the name of the island, I turn nostalgic and plenty of memories come to mind. If I could stand out a few thoughts, I would choose the nice moments with my family such as the boat rides with my father.
- What is that you would change to the island?
Nothing at all! Who would change anything to the place he loves? Perhaps I would put less icing sugar on the macaroons!
- In your opinion, which are the advantages of the island?
Apart from the beautiful church of Evangelistria that we all know of, I’d say the marvelous and picturesque villages, the famous pigeon houses, the unique virgin beaches with crystal clear waters, the gastronomy thanks to the local products and of course, the people.