Tom Parker Bowles on food writing, family traditions, and life in the royal orbit

Join host Samuel Goldsmith for a deliciously candid conversation with Tom Parker Bowles, award-winning food writer, critic, broadcaster, and son of Queen Camilla. In this episode, Tom shares stories from his royal upbringing and reflects on how family, tradition, and travel have shaped his palate. From comfort food classics like cottage pie and roast chicken to culinary adventures across Thailand, Mexico, and beyond, Tom reveals the dishes closest to his heart and the memories behind them. He discusses the art of food writing, the joys and challenges of being a restaurant critic, and why he believes good food is all about happiness, community, and knowing where your ingredients come from. With humour and warmth, Tom opens up about his favourite guilty pleasures, the influence of royal banquets, and the importance of supporting local producers. Whether you’re a foodie, a fan of British culture, or just hungry for a great story, this episode serves up plenty to savour.
Tom Parker Bowles has been an award-winning food writer for over twenty years and is the author of eight books on food (including the bestselling Fortnum & Mason cookbooks). He is the restaurant critic for The Mail on Sunday and is also a contributing editor for Esquire, Country Life, and Condé Nast Traveller, plus a regular judge on the BBC’s MasterChef. Tom is a godson of King Charles III, and his mother, Camilla, is Queen.
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