Chef Keelan Higgs, with his brother Aaron, opened Variety Jones in December 2018. It has been awarded one Michelin star annually since 2019.
Are you a saver or a spender?
I save when I have to, but I’d be lying if I said I didn’t love spending. Money tends to burn a hole in my pocket, especially when it comes to good food, great nights out, or anything that supports Irish makers. I’m a big believer in enjoying life and making memories – even if that occasionally means raiding the savings.
What was the first job you received money for, and how much were you paid?
My first job was collecting golf balls at a driving range when I was about 12. It was three hours of slog for a tenner – old money – and all the sweets I could fit in my pockets. I don’t think Revenue was too concerned back then. It taught me early on that earning your own money feels class, no matter how small the amount.
Do you shop around for better value?
I try to shop around for bigger spends like car insurance or holidays, but I’m impatient by nature and usually cave early. I’ll do a bit of digging but if the site looks dodgy or the process is too long, I’ll just pay and move on. Life’s too short for endless open tabs and comparison calculators.
RM Block
What has been your most extravagant purchase and how much did it cost?
My partner and I bought a house last year, and I don’t need to tell anyone how eye-watering Irish property prices are. That aside, I splurged on a Hugo Boss suit – casual but sharp – for around €900, and I’ve no regrets. It fits like a glove and makes me feel like the bee’s bollocks.
What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?
I picked up a Wüsthof carving knife for about €80, and honestly, it’s changed how I work in the kitchen. It’s sharp, versatile and does just about everything. There’s a joy in using proper tools when you’re passionate about food. It’s one of those purchases where you realise quality actually saves money in the long run.
Is there anything you regret spending money on?
Absolutely. I once got suckered into an Instagram ad for a Birkenstock warehouse clearout. I paid €60 for two pairs that never turned up. Total scam. Since then, I’m more wary about anything that sounds too good to be true.
Do you haggle over prices?
Only in specific settings, such as record fairs, where there’s a bit of craic in it. If I’m buying a few bits from the same stall, I’ll chance my arm. Otherwise, I generally believe that if someone’s offering quality, they deserve to be paid fairly. I’ll also occasionally haggle with the fish suppliers when I’m ordering for the kitchen.
Do you invest in shares and/or cryptocurrency?
I jumped on the GameStop train during the madness – and promptly lost a few quid. I’ve dabbled in crypto over the years, sometimes getting the timing right, other times not so much. I enjoy the learning side of it, but I’ve made peace with the fact that it’s not going to fund my retirement.
Do you have a retirement or pension plan?
I’ve been meaning to sort out a pension for years now, and this is the year it’s finally happening.
What was the last thing you bought, and was it good value for money?
A 14oz steak from Lidl for dinner last night. It was under a tenner and it hit the spot. Hard to argue with that! When something that good costs less than a fancy sandwich, you know you’ve scored.
Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?
Buying a house was a massive one, both financially and emotionally. Same goes for buying the lease and building for our restaurant: we really grafted to make it happen.
Have you ever lost money?
Plenty of times. I invested heavily in a restaurant a few years ago and it went up in fire in its second week. That one still stings.
Are you a gambler and, if so, have you ever had a big win?
I’m not a big gambler. I used to play a bit of poker with mates for small stakes, but that’s about it. These days, I mostly bet on myself, be it launching new ideas or projects and, while it’s risky, it’s the kind of gamble I’m comfortable with.
What is your best habit when it comes to money? And your worst?
My best and worst habits are probably the same – I’m a very generous tipper. I think if someone gives great service, they deserve to be recognised, so I don’t overthink it. That said, it definitely adds up if you’re eating out a lot.
How much money do you have on you now?
About €20. I’m a tap-and-go merchant most of the time. That said, I do like having some cash in my wallet. Old habits die hard.
In conversation with Tony Clayton-Lea
