Introduction
Tom Kerridge is one of the most recognizable and celebrated chefs in the United Kingdom. With numerous awards and accolades under his belt, he has become a household name both in the UK and internationally. In this article, we will take a deep dive into the life of Tom Kerridge, from his early beginnings to his rise to fame as a Michelin-starred chef, and his personal struggles with alcoholism.
Early Life and Education
Tom Kerridge was born on July 27, 1973, in Salisbury, Wiltshire, England. He grew up in the nearby village of Badger’s Hill and attended the local school. From a young age, he was interested in cooking, often helping his mother in the kitchen and experimenting with recipes.
After finishing school, Kerridge attended a catering college in Winchester. He then moved to London to work at various restaurants, including the prestigious Rhodes in the Square, where he worked under chef Gary Rhodes.
Career and Rise to Fame
Kerridge’s career really took off when he became head chef at The Hand and Flowers, a pub in the small town of Marlow, Buckinghamshire. Kerridge and his wife, Beth, purchased the pub in 2005, and it quickly gained a reputation for serving high-quality food in a relaxed and unpretentious atmosphere.
In 2011, The Hand and Flowers became the first pub in the world to be awarded two Michelin stars. Kerridge’s signature dishes, such as slow-cooked duck breast with pickled red cabbage and spiced cherries, and his famous triple-cooked chips, became famous across the country.
Kerridge has also appeared on several television shows, including Great British Menu, MasterChef, and Saturday Kitchen. He has published several cookbooks, including Proper Pub Food, Tom’s Table, and Tom Kerridge’s Best Ever Dishes.
In addition to his work at The Hand and Flowers, Kerridge also runs several other successful restaurants, including The Coach, The Butcher’s Tap, and Kerridge’s Bar & Grill, which opened in London in 2018.
Personal Struggles with Alcoholism
In 2013, Kerridge opened up about his struggles with alcoholism. He revealed that he had been drinking heavily for many years, but had managed to hide his addiction from his family and colleagues. However, his drinking had started to affect his health and his work, and he realized that he needed to make a change.
Kerridge checked himself into rehab and quit drinking for good. He has been open about his recovery and has become an advocate for addiction awareness and support. He has also published a cookbook, Tom Kerridge’s Fresh Start, which includes healthy recipes and advice for people who want to improve their diet and lifestyle.
Awards and Accolades
Tom Kerridge has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. In addition to the two Michelin stars awarded to The Hand and Flowers, he has also been awarded the prestigious AA Chef’s Chef of the Year award twice. He has also been awarded an MBE for his services to the hospitality industry.
Conclusion
Tom Kerridge is a chef who has achieved incredible success in his career, but who has also faced personal struggles and challenges along the way. His story is one of perseverance, dedication, and the importance of seeking help when facing addiction. His restaurants and cookbooks continue to inspire people across the UK and beyond, and his legacy as one of the country’s most celebrated chefs is sure to endure for many years to come.
