EXCLUSIVE: First Dates star Fred Sirieix has been in a relationship with his fiancée, who he affectionately calls ‘Fruitcake’, since 2018, and he has opened up about what romance means to him
Fred Sirieix, the charming French maître d’ known for his wisdom on love and relationships, has been dishing out advice on food and romance for years. Now, as he partners with Knorr for their latest Valentine’s campaign, he gives us a glimpse into his relationship with his fiancée Fruitcake (she prefers to keep her real name under wraps), who he’s been dating since 2018, and shares his thoughts on what romance truly means to him.
The star, who’s been playing cupid on First Dates since 2013, insists that the way to a woman’s heart is through her stomach, as he unveils his own plans for Valentine’s Day, spills the beans on an exciting new TV project coming up later this year, and reveals his honest opinion about Brits and their romantic prowess.
What are your own Valentine plans?
Nothing beats the romance of sharing a private, intimate meal at home, so I plan to stay in. Cooking at home not only saves money but also allows you to handpick quality ingredients. And when you’re cooking at home this Valentine’s Day, remember, it’s a marathon, not a sprint!, reports the Mirror. To ensure I stick to my timings, I prepare each part of the meal step by step. I put on my classical playlist and follow the rhythm of the music. It clears my mind and creates a calmer environment, helping me avoid any annoying mistakes.
You’re synonymous with love and romance – are you a romantic at heart?
Romance, to me, is all about accepting and loving others, living in harmony. I’m a hopeless romantic at heart, always thriving on being around people. A significant part of my job involves interacting with others and serving them. Like any relationship, you reap what you sow. The more effort you put in, the better it becomes. It’s all about nurturing love!
What’s one of the most romantic gestures you’ve ever made?
I’m a big fan of romantic gestures; I’ve made plenty over the years. Perhaps one of my best or favourite ones was whisking Fruitcake off to Monte Carlo to show her the places where I worked as a young professional. It was magical to relive those moments together as a team!
What adds the ‘spice’ in your own relationship?
Clear communication and shared interests are key to keeping the spark alive in my relationship. In a relationship, you’re both a team, supporting each other rather than working against each other. Having that sense of teamwork and shared interest within the relationship keeps the spice alive.
You’re working with Knorr on their new campaign – is cooking together key to reigniting the spark?
Absolutely! They say couples who cook together stay together! Cooking a meal with your loved one is an intimate experience and provides a great opportunity to get creative with your partner.
According to Knorr’s research, half of UK adults enjoy cooking with a partner, with over two-thirds of these being younger people (67%).
Are you a good cook? What would you rustle up to have your other half falling into your arms….
I was born into a food-loving family. My parents always had good food in the fridge: from fillet steaks to seasonal veg; they loved to whip up quality dishes.
My favourite meal to cook for my significant other is a beautiful steak with my signature mushroom cream sauce, made with a White Wine Knorr stock pot, of course, and my lovely homemade French fries, then we are winning.
Does dining out ever feel like a Busman’s holiday for you?
Absolutely!
As a maître d’, it can be challenging to switch off as part of my brain is always observing and critiquing. It’s a huge passion of mine! However, I always remember that dining out is just a chance to relax, enjoy and get inspiration, so that it doesn’t detract from the experience.
Do you think Brits are fundamentally not very romantic?
I actually think Brits are very romantic and love celebrating love. My tip is, to add a playful and romantic side to your relationship this week, listen to what your partner wants and combine it with a passion of yours, this will add a personal twist on generic romantic gestures.
Have you got any exciting new TV projects on the horizon this year?
There are lots of exciting things on the horizon!
We’re just about to start filming a new series for First Dates and launching an extension of the First Dates brand called First Days Beach Club which we are filming this year. In addition to touring round Northern Ireland for a cycle programme called Fred’s Tour De Ireland. Can’t wait for you all to see it come to life.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
The top tip came from my mum: There is only one way to do it, always work with the best and always give your all!
If you could have a chat with your 18 year old self, what wisdom would you share?
Never stop learning. The hospitality industry is huge and always changing. Stay curious and open to new experiences and methods, that’s how true passion develops – when you’re fostering something you adore.