27 Questions With: Martin Kuczmarski

Martin Kuczmarksi's uniform is a navy blue suit with a navy blue crew neck beneath it. In this way, his personal style, he says, is "classic, on the border of boring — and always driven by quality." This might stand for his distinctive brand of hospitality, too. There is nothing boring about it. At The Dover, in Mayfair, he has quietly opened one of London's most beloved restaurants in simple, classical style. No fanfare, no gimmicks — just exquisite mid-century woods, the perfect level of lighting, and food you actually want to eat. The simplest of recipes — but the hardest of executions. Here, Martin discusses public speaking, three-cheese toasts, and the romance of the evening.

What simple thing changed your life most unexpectedly?

Maybe not a simple thing — but relocating from Poland to Italy at a young age. Growing up in Italy shaped me into who I am today.

How do you get to sleep?

I love comfort. So great bedsheets, a fine cotton t-shirt and boxers, natural magnesium and a glass of water. The biggest thing: feeling gratitude for being able to fall asleep.

What is the best city in the world?

London. I have been in London for 28 years, and the city keeps changing and evolving. You can do everything, or you can do nothing. The choice is yours.

What’s your favourite insult?

I think it would be very rude to write this down on paper, so let’s settle on ‘f****** wanker.’

Apart from therapy, what is the best form of therapy?

Many things: fresh air and exercise, speaking openly and honesty to loved ones, or two Vodka Martinis and a bottle of Super Tuscan.

What piece of advice do you wish you’d followed?

‘Always trust your instincts.’ At the beginning of my career, I listened to my analytical brain, but as I’ve gotten older, I have learnt to listen to the quiet voice inside your head, which is the most powerful direction you can get.

"Super Tuscan red for any evening of the week..."

Do you have a uniform?

I love navy, so my Richard James suits are all different shades of navy, as with all my casual clothes, too.

What is the last song you listened to?

‘Ma quale idea’ by Pino D’Angiò

What is your favourite time of the day or night?

Mid-morning, around 10/11am, or any hour after 9pm. There is something romantic about the evenings.

What is the finest accent in the world?

Italian, even if you don’t speak the language. You can understand their emotions through their tone — and of course, their body language.

What’s been your most extravagant ever purchase?

Fifteen years ago, when we moved into our new home, I installed the most up-to-date sound system hidden within the walls and ceiling. It worked for just a week – and to repair it? You had to knock down the walls and ceiling. So in hindsight, the shittiest purchase ever made.

What is the finest drink on the planet?

It depends on the occasion. Water for every day. Rosé by the seaside. And Super Tuscan red for any evening of the week.

What is the best thing about getting older?

It is all about finally understanding who you are, what you like, what you don’t like, what you love, and being able to manage your time: spending it either with people that you love, or on things you are passionate about.

What is your tip for public speaking?

You must be prepared, know who you are speaking to, know your subject, and above all, you must be genuine and speak from the heart.

What quotation is always stuck in your head?

“Find a job that you love, and you will never work again.”

What small thing irritates you inordinately?

I loathe people who tell you they will do something by a specific time/date, and then don’t do it.

What is your go-to toast?

Cheese on toast: but with three different cheeses, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper.

What is your favourite pair of shoes?

Anything from Harry’s London or Ferragamo.

What is one thing that’s always worth paying more for?

Within your means, if you can, you should always spend a little more to get the best quality item you are trying to buy.

What did you learn from your parents?

Work hard, and be humble in every stage of your life.

Where does the best burger in the world?

I must say, I think it's In-N-Out in LA.

"Work hard, and be humble in every stage of your life..."

Who is the most interesting person you know?

My wife, Ruby Hammer. There is never a dull day.

How would you describe your personal style?

Classic, on the border of boring — and always driven by quality.

What is your go-to dessert?

Italian Gelato: crema and nocciola.

Which famous person’s death affected you most?

Death is part of our lives, and it is very personal to each of us, and affects us all in different ways. I think it would be unfair to name just one.

How would you like to be remembered?

As a person that you could have fun with. But most importantly, someone you could count on.

What are you looking forward to doing tomorrow?

Everyday I look forward to the new day ahead, as it is a blessing to be able to wake up healthy.

This article was taking from the Autumn 2025 issue of Gentleman's Journal. Subscribe to Gentleman's Journal now to receive the issue to your door.

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