Tom Kerridge, one of Britain's finest chefs, opens up about his addiction to work, the sacrifices he's made, and the shift from self-indulgence to a life focused on growth and excitement. He also discusses the demanding nature of the restaurant industry, the concept of excessiveness in people's lives, and the importance of finding balance.
Tom Kerridge fell in love with the hospitality industry for its adrenaline and camaraderie, which led him to develop a deep respect for quality ingredients.
Recognizing the need for change, Tom Kerridge made a decision to quit drinking overnight, now enjoying the benefits of a sober lifestyle with a different kind of enjoyment and appreciation.
Deep dives
Tom Kerej's Childhood Relationship with Food
Tom Kerej grew up in the 80s with a single parent, and food was mostly convenience-based. While his mom was a good cook, they did not have much time for elaborate meals. Cooking was not something Tom saw as a future path, but rather a necessity. His interest in food and its potential for creativity came later in life.
Discovering the Energy of the Hospitality Industry
At 18, Tom entered the hospitality industry, initially looking for a job, not necessarily a career in food. However, he fell in love with the adrenaline, the camaraderie, and the excitement of working in a kitchen. For Tom, food became a byproduct of the industry he wanted to be a part of. As he spent more time in the kitchen and built relationships with suppliers and producers, he developed a deeper respect and understanding for quality ingredients.
The Excessiveness and Shift in Lifestyle
In his journey, Tom acknowledged a phase of exessiveness in his personal life, including excessive drinking. While he enjoyed the lifestyle and the fun it brought, he eventually recognized the need for change. He made a decision to stop drinking overnight, although it took a few months to fully transition. Tom now enjoys the benefits of a sober lifestyle, where he is present in the moment and has a different kind of enjoyment and appreciation.
The Drive for Success and Fear of Stopping
Tom's excessive personality is a driving force in his life and work. He constantly strives for success, fearing that if he stops or becomes complacent, someone else might overtake him. This drive pushes him to say yes to new projects, keep pushing boundaries, and keep improving. However, he also recognizes the need for balance and hopes to find more control and normality in his life in the future.
Chef Tom Kerridge works hard and, for a long time, played hard too.
In this open and honest conversation with Fearne, one of Britain's finest chefs talks about his process, his addiction to work and the sacrifices he's made along the way.
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