Jerome Batten, passionate providore, Sourced Grocer
Be open to anything.
In an attempt to satiate an interminable wanderlust, Jerome Batten spent much of his twenties exploring the intricacies of the world’s cultural fabric. But where some are inspired by the language of a culture, and others the music or the architecture, it was the food that ignited Jerome’s spirit – in particular the colourful melange of fresh produce markets. His passion soon became his purpose when, in mid 2011, he rose the rollerdoor for the first time on Sourced Grocer – a contemporary spin on the neighbourhood grocer that celebrates the beauty of locally sourced food, pride in provenance and eating thoughtfully. The Weekend Edition chatted to Jerome about his essentials for a great weekend.
How do you like to start your weekend?
When I can, with a swim in the ocean and then catching up on design and food readings over a long, slow delicious breakfast.
What’s your favourite thing to do on a Saturday morning?
Sleep in when I get the chance, which, to be honest, is rare these days. But it does feel great to hit the rollerdoor button to open Sourced Grocer up for another fun day of trade with my awesome team and customers.
How do you like to unwind?
Escaping to the coast for some ocean and sun. I also love to get back down to the Tweed Valley and Byron Shire where I grew up – it’s such an inspiring and beautiful place. And, of course, cooking and eating good food, preferably with good friends and music.
What are your essentials for a well-spent weekend?
Food, friends, beach, music. Any combination with these ingredients makes for a good weekend.
What’s something you’ve been meaning to do on the weekend but haven’t got around to yet?
Exploring the current exhibitions at GOMA, especially Across Country: Five Years of Indigenous Australian Art from the Collection. We are lucky to have such a place in our city.
What’s your favourite thing to do on a Sunday evening?
Wind down after a long week, with a good meal, and look back over the week to work out what I want to achieve next week.
What are you looking forward to next weekend?
Hopefully, a sleep in.
What are you reading at the moment?
Steve Stoute’s The Tanning of America (which was given to me by a close friend), The Real Food Companion by Matthew Evans, and loads of design- and food-related blogs and magazines.
Who inspires you?
My team at Sourced Grocer who have shown me such great support and friendship. It wouldn’t be possible without them. And, of course, my loving family and friends who have always been there for me.
What inspires you?
People who are putting so much of themselves into producing, making and creating such amazing things across so many disciplines that we can appreciate and access.
What was your childhood dream?
My first dream was to play soccer professionally, which then turned into wanting to become a chef. At least today I am surrounded by beautiful produce and food everyday.
What has been your greatest achievement?
Having Sourced Grocer welcomed into the everyday lives of so many of our fantastic customers. Their support and encouragement drives us to continue to try to provide the best experience and product that we can.
What is success to you?
Being at a place in your life, surrounded with the people who matter to you and knowing you are enjoying and putting your all into whatever it is you are wanting or trying to achieve.
What are your words of wisdom?
Be open to anything. There are so many amazing people and places to learn and grow from as long as you are willing to explore and try.
Only a local would know that … Brisbane is growing into such a vibrant city with so many people adding to the fabric and make-up of the place. There are new and exciting things happening all the time.
FAVOURITE WEEKEND SPOT TO:
Perk up … Usually at Sourced Grocer (work) to get me going. When not working, at Cup Specialty Coffee, West End.
Relax … The roof of the building where I live, with my iPod and reading material.
Dine … Beccofino – always a great night.
Indulge …With some quality cured meats and tapas and something good to drink at Ortiga.
Shop … To fulfil my love of quality shoes and boots at soleDevotion on James Street.
Catch-up … Super Whatnot – a great little addition to our city.
Be inspired … Folio Books.
Check out Sourced Grocer on The Street Photographer, here.