This Week • 27 April 2003

The third degree with Marcus Hanna

With a self-confessed passion for good food and good wine, it is hardly a wonder that Australian Marcus Hanna chose to carve for himself a career out of these two things he loves. And as director of food and beverage at the Inter-Continental Malta, he makes sure he spreads this passion to all his guests. Born in Australia, Marcus’ strong point is not limited to food and drink: back in his home country he had represented Australia in the international rowing championships, placing fifth together with his team.

Of life in Malta he has only good things to say so far and with the onset of summer is looking forward to enjoying the various water-sports as well as life on the beach. So where can you find Marcus when he is not working or swimming? At some good restaurant of course. He believes firmly in the necessity of checking out the competition and dines out every day – except when his mother is here, of course, when he gets to enjoy a taste of home cooking.If you were in item of food, what would you be?

My favourite cuisine is Lebanese but if I were to be food myself I think I’d be a fruit. Why? Because there are so many different kinds and I am the sort of person to like to try a lot of different things.

If someone were to hand you Lm10,000 what would you do?

I’d buy a house in Sydney.

If you were to impress a lover how would you go about it?

I would buy her a dozen roses and then take her for a candle-lit dinner to a secluded restaurant. There would be champagne and new world wine, of course. Then we’d watch the sunset. I don’t have to tell you what would happen afterwards as well, I hope.

How would you like to be remembered?

As someone honest, someone who enjoyed life to its fullest. And a loveable person.

What’s the worst insult one can throw at you?

That I’m dishonest or that I don’t respect people. I firmly believe that you have to be honest with people and respectful too, it doesn’t matter who they are. Everyone is on equal terms.

How would you describe yourself?

As a person who is passionate about food and wine, who love to work within a team and who enjoys a good drink and a great party.

Which film or song describes you life best?

Currently I’d say Bridget Jones’ Diary. But without the actual diary.

Are you a coffee or a tea drinker?

Definitely tea. I’ve only ever tasted coffee twice in my life and that was when we were changing brands at the Inter-Continental London and here. Caffeine does a lot of harm to the body. But I definitely love my four o’clock tea.

What’s been the highlight of your life so far?

Representing my country in rowing at the world championships. We came fifth. I miss the sport here in Malta – it’s the ultimate team sport.

How old do you feel?

It depends on the day. But mostly I feel twenty-one.

What’s your best pick-up line?

I hate pick-up lines I normally go for eye-contact and a smile.

What are you like when you’re drunk?

I become more outspoken and I put on my dancing shoes and forget all about my two left feet. And I dance to YMCA, in fact I ask for it to be played.

Do you consider yourself an introvert or an extrovert?

An introvert. But my friends tell me I’m an extrovert. It’s true that I love working with people but I don’t consider myself as a true extrovert, especially when I compare myself to my cousins who are real extroverts.

Tell us a recent dream.

That I was with the person of my dreams for the rest of my life.

If money were no option what would you be doing?

I’d be in Sydney and I would have a house with a harbour view, with my marina and cruiser in front. I’d do a lot of fishing, rugby, cricket, dining out, travelling. I’d stay in hotels such as the Inter-continental, of course. And I’d be shopping non-stop.

What’s the most bizarre thing you’ve ever eaten?

Crocodile and kangaroo. The first time I tasted kangaroo it wasn’t cooked properly so I wasn’t impressed. But when it’s cooked as it should… it’s lovely.

Can you keep a secret?

Yes. Though when I was a rower everyone used to come to me for the gossip.

If you have a time-machine where would you travel?

I’d go back to the time of Jesus. And also to when they were building the pyramids.

If you had to be fictional/real character, who would you be?

Rocky.

Do you believe I the supernatural?

Not at all. Sorry!

If you get stuck in an elevator with four strangers, how would you react?

If they were four beautiful women, I’d have no problems. It’d be paradise in fact. Otherwise I’d say a few jokes to keep everyone calm and hope for the best.

Are you a workaholic?

In this industry you have to enjoy yourself, it is a profession that requires long hours of work. I do not really see myself as a workaholic but I realise that people might see me this way simply because of the length of time I spend at work.

What are you most afraid of in life?

Failure. Whether in my career on in my personal life.

Would you quit your job without having another one lined up?

Yes if I was unhappy. I believe that in life everything happens for a reason. It would not be a particularly smart move, but if necessary yes I’d do it.

Interview by Ramona Depares