Two-Michelin-star chef Tom Kerridge talks about his humble beginnings, struggles with late hours and excess in the culinary world, his journey to success, and surprising snacking habits. He shares childhood memories, the impact of his father's illness, and his transformation journey towards entrepreneurship and Michelin stars.
Tom Kerridge's culinary journey began with a passion for recreating homely meals from childhood memories.
Embracing sobriety and healthier lifestyle reshaped Kerridge's identity from heavy drinker to successful chef.
Deep dives
Tom Kerridge: The Journey to Culinary Success
Tom Kerridge's culinary journey began with a passion for cooking sparked by the book 'White Heat' by Marco Pierre White. Starting as a chef and later opening his own restaurant, the Hand and Flowers, Kerridge's dedication led to two Michelin stars within a year. Despite financial challenges, the success of his restaurants validated his hard work and perseverance.
Family, Childhood Memories, and Comfort Foods
Growing up in Gloucester in the '70s and '80s, Kerridge reminisces about the family pubs and childhood snacks like Smith's crisps with self-applied salt. His family life, marked by his parents' split and his father's illness, influenced his bond with his son today. Cherishing Sunday roasts cooked by his mother, Kerridge values the warmth and connection food brings.
From Chaos to Clarity: Tom Kerridge's Transformation
Kerridge's honest account reflects on his past struggles with alcohol and the decision to embrace sobriety at 40. Losing 12 stone, he embraced a healthier lifestyle, reshaping his identity from a heavy drinker to a focused chef and family man. Overcoming challenges, he emphasizes the importance of growth and self-discovery.
Pub in the Park: A Culinary and Musical Extravaganza
The launch of 'Pub in the Park' festival, combining food and music, showcases Kerridge's creativity beyond the kitchen. Expanding nationwide with artists like Van Morrison, the festival embodies Kerridge's passion for bringing people together. His witty suggestion of Pilgrim's Choice cheese and red grapes to placate a grumpy Van Morrison adds a touch of humor to his multifaceted success.
Comfort Eating’s culinary standards might have been permanently raised after two-Michelin-star chef Tom Kerridge’s visit. But he’s not exactly one to show off. Growing up in Gloucester, Tom always wanted to recreate the homely meals he’d find at his local pub or at his mum’s on Sundays. With a brief detour on to the acting stage, Tom started his career working at some of the country’s top restaurants. In the rock’n’roll era of fine dining, suddenly it was cool to be working in a restaurant late at night. But as Tom and Grace discuss, a world of late hours and excess triggered multiple health problems for him. Going sober and solo, Tom started running his own businesses and success quickly followed. So what exactly does a top chef snack on when they’re not winning awards? You might be surprised …
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