Are you a saver or a spender?
A bit of both. I have always been good with money. I was "bank Kim" in the family when I was growing up. I am good at saving if it's something I really want, and great at spending on something I really enjoy.

Do you shop around for better value?
Not really in my personal life, as I'm not really a big shopper. When it comes to the restaurant, that is when I shop around.

What has been your most extravagant purchase and how much did it cost?
That would be DeVille's. I try not to dwell on the cost and see it more as a lifetime investment that will pay off in the end.

What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?
After years of cheap and cheerful sunglasses, I splashed out on two pairs of designer ones. I was the sales girl's dream when she told me about the "buy a second pair for 15 per cent off deal" and I jumped at it. I think they were good value I almost feel guilty when I spend like that. I was brought up to appreciate the value of money, and I do.

What ways do you prefer to shop – online or local?
I would have to say local, I am not a fan of online shopping. I have bought a few things online for the restaurant but in general I prefer to see what I am buying.

Do you haggle over prices?
I recently put my haggling skills to work in Egypt. It became a bit addictive. Generally though, I wouldn't be a haggler. Dealing with suppliers, I prefer to call it "negotiating".

Has the recession changed your spending habits?
It has and it hasn't. I was one of the lucky ones who didn't buy any property during the boom. My dad was pretty insistent that I didn't buy a house or apartment during that time. Thankfully, I listened to him.

Do you invest in shares?
Not at the moment.

Cash or card?
Both. I prefer cash, though, as it physically allows me to see what I am spending.

What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money?
A new blender for the restaurant kitchen. We had a cheaper one, but it only lasted a few weeks, so we decided to splash out and upgrade. The chefs were all delighted.

Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?
When I was in my early 20s, I saved up to buy myself a car. I was bartending in the US at the time, so it was slightly easier to save. Tipping over there is so good.

Have you ever lost money?
I have never been in a situation where I could lose money until now. I don't own property, I don't even own the car I'm driving. I'm using my best friend's while I save and decide on one for myself.

Is money important to you?
It is important, yes. Without money and bank loans, etc, we wouldn't have been able to set up the restaurant.

How much cash are you carrying now?
Nothing – the parking meter cleaned me out.

In conversation with Tony Clayton-Lea