Introduction
Chef Michael Caines is a renowned chef from the United Kingdom, who has established himself as one of the most respected and celebrated chefs in the world. Born in Exeter in 1969, Caines has won numerous accolades throughout his career, including two Michelin stars, and has been a fixture in the culinary world for over three decades.
Early Life and Education
Michael Caines was born on January 30th, 1969, in Exeter, England. He was raised in a family of six children and his father worked as a construction worker while his mother was a housewife. Caines lost his right arm in a car accident when he was just 25 years old. However, he did not let his injury deter him from pursuing his passion for cooking.
Caines developed an interest in cooking at a young age. He was inspired by his mother, who was an excellent cook, and he would often help her in the kitchen. After completing his education at Exeter College, he decided to pursue a career in catering and hospitality.
Career
After completing his studies, Caines started his career as a commis chef at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London. He later moved to the Michelin-starred Bernard Loiseau restaurant in France, where he trained under the renowned chef. He then returned to the UK and worked at a number of prestigious restaurants, including the Royal Garden Hotel in London, and Gidleigh Park in Devon.
In 1994, Caines was appointed as head chef at Gidleigh Park, a luxury hotel and restaurant located in the heart of Dartmoor National Park. Under his leadership, Gidleigh Park was awarded two Michelin stars, making Caines one of the youngest chefs in the UK to achieve this feat. He held this position for 21 years, until 2016.
Throughout his career, Caines has won numerous accolades and awards for his culinary skills. In 2004, he was awarded the prestigious AA Chefs’ Chef of the Year award, and in 2006, he was named as one of the Top 50 Most Influential People in the UK Hospitality Industry by Caterer and Hotelkeeper magazine.
Caines has also appeared on a number of television programs, including Saturday Kitchen and MasterChef, where he has been a regular judge since 2005.
In addition to his work as a chef, Caines is also a successful restaurateur. In 2016, he opened his first solo restaurant, Michael Caines at ABode Exeter, which has been widely acclaimed for its innovative and contemporary cuisine.
In 2017, he opened Lympstone Manor, a luxury country house hotel and restaurant in Devon, which has already been awarded a Michelin star. The hotel and restaurant have been praised for their stunning architecture, beautiful surroundings, and impeccable service.
Caines has also published a number of cookbooks, including Michael Caines at Gidleigh Park, which was named as the Best Cookery Book in the World at the Gourmand World Cookbook Awards in 2005.
In 2017, Caines was awarded an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list for his services to the hospitality industry.
Personal Life
Caines is married to Giselle, and the couple has two children. He is also an avid sportsman and has competed in a number of triathlons and other endurance events, including the Ironman UK.
Caines is also a passionate advocate for charitable causes. He has worked with a number of charities throughout his career, including the Exeter Foundation, which supports local charities and community projects in the South West of England.
