Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge has spoken about the challenges facing the hospitality industry and his own career shift, as he prepares for his annual Pub in the Park festival. The 51-year-old, who runs several establishments in Marlow including the two-Michelin-starred Hand & Flowers, admitted he has 'never known fear like it' regarding the current crisis for pubs and restaurants.
Kerridge, who presented Saving Britain's Pubs on the BBC in 2020, said the industry is struggling despite his own success. He prides himself on his 'socialist' business empire but acknowledged that his staff are also feeling the strain. 'It's all about doing the simple things correctly,' he said, emphasising the importance of making customers feel welcome.
The chef, who has been sober for over a decade, reflected on his past heavy drinking, which included two pints of negroni, a dozen pints of lager and a pint of gin in a single night. He said he never got hangovers but lived in a 'perpetual state of Nurofen and coffee'. He gave up alcohol without professional help, filling his time with exercise and healthy eating.
Despite his sobriety, Kerridge remains passionate about the social side of hospitality and works with artisan brewers and wineries. He expressed optimism that the industry will survive, citing the importance of community and good service. 'A pub should feel familiar, like a nice warm bath,' he said.
Kerridge also shared his excitement about the upcoming Oasis reunion, although he admitted he paid 'a lot' for tickets and joked that the band might not stay together until September. His Pub in the Park festival, which combines food with live music, aims to create 'the most fun-vibe beer garden'.
