Paul Ainsworth, a renowned chef who has worked in some of the most prestigious kitchens in the UK, including alongside culinary icons such as Gordon Ramsay and Marcus Wareing, recently opened up about his relationship with the infamous Hell’s Kitchen star.
In a rare and candid interview, Ainsworth shared his experiences of working with Ramsay and how it has shaped his career in the culinary world. The two chefs first crossed paths when Ainsworth was just starting out in his career, working as a commis chef at Ramsay’s restaurant, Aubergine. From there, Ainsworth went on to work with Ramsay at his flagship restaurant, Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, and later at Claridge’s.
Despite Ramsay’s reputation for being a tough and demanding boss, Ainsworth speaks highly of his time working with him. He describes Ramsay as a mentor and credits him for teaching him the importance of discipline, organization, and attention to detail in the kitchen. Ainsworth also praises Ramsay’s dedication to using the best quality ingredients and his relentless pursuit of perfection.
But it wasn’t just Ramsay’s culinary skills that left a lasting impression on Ainsworth. He also admires Ramsay’s business acumen and his ability to build a successful empire of restaurants around the world. Ainsworth credits Ramsay for inspiring him to open his own restaurant, Paul Ainsworth at No. 6, in the picturesque town of Padstow in Cornwall.
Ainsworth’s career continued to flourish as he worked with other renowned chefs, such as Marcus Wareing, at The Savoy Grill. He also had the opportunity to work with Ramsay again when he was invited to be a guest chef at his restaurant in Dubai. Ainsworth describes this experience as a full-circle moment and a testament to the strong relationship he has built with Ramsay over the years.
Despite their busy schedules, Ainsworth and Ramsay still keep in touch and even collaborate on projects together. Ainsworth has appeared as a guest chef on Ramsay’s TV show, The F Word, and the two have also worked together on charity events. Ainsworth speaks highly of Ramsay’s generosity and willingness to help others, which he believes is a true testament to his character.
As Ainsworth’s own restaurant continues to gain recognition and accolades, he remains humble and grateful for the opportunities and lessons he has received from working with Ramsay. He credits Ramsay for helping him develop his own style and approach to cooking, while also instilling in him the importance of staying true to his roots and using local, seasonal ingredients.
In conclusion, Paul Ainsworth’s relationship with Gordon Ramsay is one of mutual respect, admiration, and mentorship. Ainsworth’s journey from a young commis chef to a successful restaurateur is a testament to the impact Ramsay has had on his career. And as Ainsworth continues to make a name for himself in the culinary world, he will always be grateful for the rare and valuable insight he gained from working with the Hell’s Kitchen star.