Tom Kerridge stands out as one of Britain’s most beloved and influential chefs today. He transforms hearty pub classics into world-class dishes, inspires millions with his weight loss journey, and fights passionately for the hospitality industry. Fans know him for his warm personality on TV, bold flavors in his restaurants, and honest approach to life and food. Whether you watch him judge on Great British Menu, try his recipes at home, or visit one of his venues, Kerridge delivers approachable excellence every time. This in-depth guide explores everything about Tom Kerridge in 2026. You discover his early life, rise to fame, groundbreaking restaurants, health transformation, TV presence, bestselling books, advocacy work, and recent updates. Read on to see why he remains a powerhouse in the culinary world. Early Life and Path to Becoming a Chef Tom Kerridge entered the world on July 27, 1973, in Gloucestershire, England. He grew up in a supportive family that valued good food and hard work. As a child, SAS Rogue Heroes he appeared in small television roles, but cooking quickly captured his heart. At just 18 years old, he enrolled in culinary school in Cheltenham. There, he fell deeply in love with the industry and committed to mastering his craft. Kerridge launched his professional career in country house hotels and restaurants across Gloucestershire. He soon moved to London, where he honed his skills under renowned chefs like Gary Rhodes. He absorbed techniques in fine dining and developed a passion for bold, flavorful British ingredients. Later, he headed to Norwich and took the helm as head chef at Adlards, a Michelin-starred spot known for modern British cuisine. These experiences built his foundation and prepared him for bigger ventures. In 2005, Kerridge and his wife Beth made a bold move. They took over a rundown pub called The Hand & Flowers in Marlow, Buckinghamshire. They poured their energy into transforming it into a welcoming gastropub. That same year, the venue earned its first Michelin star. The achievement marked the start of something extraordinary. The Hand & Flowers: Revolutionizing the Gastropub Scene The Hand & Flowers remains Kerridge’s flagship restaurant and a true landmark. Chefs and diners alike celebrate it as the world’s first (and still only) pub to hold two Michelin stars. Kerridge achieves this honor by blending hearty pub traditions with refined techniques and The Best Celebrity top-quality ingredients. Diners savor dishes like slow-cooked meats, rich sauces, and creative twists on classics. Kerridge focuses on bold flavors that comfort and impress. The pub atmosphere stays relaxed and friendly, which sets it apart from stuffy fine-dining spots. In 2025 and into 2026, The Hand & Flowers continues to thrive and celebrate over 20 years of excellence. Kerridge expanded his vision beyond this iconic pub. He opened The Coach in Marlow in 2014, followed by The Butcher’s Tap. These venues offer more casual dining while maintaining his signature style. He later launched Kerridge’s Bar & Grill in London and The Bull and Bear in Manchester. Each spot showcases his commitment to exceptional British cooking and genuine hospitality. Tom Kerridge’s Inspiring Weight Loss Journey Tom Kerridge once weighed over 30 stone (around 420 pounds). He openly shares how his lifestyle as a chef—long hours, tasting rich foods, and heavy drinking—contributed to his size. In his mid-30s, he decided to change. He adopted the Dopamine Diet, which emphasizes high-protein foods, smart carbs, and flavorful meals that keep you satisfied. Kerridge lost an impressive 12 stone (about 168 pounds) over several years. He maintains his healthier weight to this day. In recent interviews from 2025 and 2026, he explains that he focuses on balance rather than strict rules. He avoids “cheat days” because they create guilt. Instead, he removes shame from eating and chooses nourishing foods most of the time. He shares simple meals, like a three-ingredient dish that A Thousand Blows fits his routine. Kerridge credits sobriety—quitting alcohol entirely—for much of his success. He speaks candidly about his past heavy drinking without regret, viewing it as part of his journey. His transformation inspires fans worldwide, and he continues to promote sustainable health habits. TV Appearances and Media Presence Tom Kerridge shines on television. He regularly competes on and now judges Great British Menu on BBC Two. In the 2026 series, he returns as a long-standing judge alongside others like Lorna McNee. The show challenges top chefs to create patriotic menus, and Kerridge provides expert feedback with his signature enthusiasm. He hosts shows like How to Lose Weight For Good and Top of the Shop for the BBC. These programs highlight his personal experiences and practical advice. Kerridge also appears on Saturday Kitchen, MasterChef, and other favorites. His warm, relatable style makes complex cooking accessible to home viewers. Beyond TV, Kerridge runs a popular YouTube channel called Chef Tom Kerridge. He shares recipes, tips, and fun cooking hacks. Fans call themselves Stellar Cast of ‘After the Flood’ “Pirates” after his playful branding. He hosts the Pirate Ship podcast, where he discusses food, life, and industry insights. In 2026, he contributes to publications like The Sunday Times Magazine, extending his reach. Bestselling Books and Recipes Tom Kerridge authors numerous bestselling cookbooks that bring his restaurant magic to home kitchens. His titles include: Proper Pub Food Tom Kerridge’s Best Ever Dishes Tom’s Table The Dopamine Diet Lose Weight for Good Tom Kerridge’s Fresh Start Outdoor Cooking Pub Kitchen The Hand & Flowers Cookbook Tom Kerridge Cooks Britain His latest works celebrate British ingredients and straightforward techniques. Recipes feature bold flavors, seasonal produce, and comforting elements. Kerridge’s official website offers many free recipes, videos, and cook-along guides. Fans love how he makes professional-level dishes achievable at home. Advocacy for the Hospitality Industry Kerridge passionately campaigns for pubs and restaurants. He pushes for lower business rates, reduced VAT on hospitality, and better support for the sector. In early 2026, he urges the government to cut VAT from 20% to help businesses survive rising costs. He openly discusses post-Covid challenges. He describes closing businesses as the “hardest decision” he ever made. Despite struggles, he remains optimistic about hospitality’s future. He insists people love going out, so the industry endures. Kerridge highlights The Hairy Bikers the magic of working in hospitality and encourages young talent to join. In 2026, he backs emerging restaurants like Ynyshir for potential Michelin stars. He fights for fair policies that protect pubs and allow them to thrive. Personal Life and Values Tom Kerridge marries artist Beth Kerridge, his partner in business and life. Together, they build their restaurant empire from The Hand & Flowers onward. They have a son named Acey, and family remains central to Kerridge’s world. He values hard work, honesty, and community. His “Pirate Ship” theme adds fun to his brand—he calls followers “Pirates” and fosters a sense of adventure in cooking. Kerridge balances a demanding career with personal well-being, sobriety, and family time. Recent Updates and 2026 Outlook In 2026, Tom Kerridge consolidates his successes rather than launching major new projects Unforgettable Faces reflects on industry challenges in interviews and podcasts shares that some pubs do not make money yet, but he stays committed to quality and advocacy. He predicts exciting developments in British dining, including potential three-star wins for spots like Ynyshir. Kerridge continues judging Great British Menu and creating content for fans. His focus remains on bold British food, health, and supporting hospitality workers. Why Tom Kerridge Matters Today Tom Kerridge inspires home cooks, aspiring chefs, and industry professionals alike. He proves that pub food can reach Michelin levels without losing its soul. His weight loss story shows transformation is possible with determination and smart choices. His advocacy highlights the real struggles behind the glamour of restaurants. Whether you seek recipe ideas, TV entertainment, or insights into British cuisine, Kerridge delivers. He keeps things real, flavorful, and approachable. As he sails forward with his “Pirate Ship,” fans eagerly follow his next chapter. FAQs About Tom Kerridge 1. What is Tom Kerridge’s most famous restaurant achievement? Tom Kerridge makes history with The Hand & Flowers in Marlow. This pub becomes the first and only one in the world to earn two Michelin stars. He achieves this by serving elevated British pub classics with exceptional ingredients and skillful techniques. Diners love the relaxed vibe combined with world-class food, which keeps the venue packed and acclaimed year after year. 2. How much weight did Tom Kerridge lose, and how did he do it? Tom Kerridge sheds an impressive 12 stone (about 168 pounds) over several years. He follows the Dopamine Diet, which prioritizes high-protein foods, Logan Sargeant dopamine-boosting ingredients, and satisfying meals. He also quits alcohol completely and focuses on balance instead of restrictive rules. In 2026, he maintains his healthier weight and shares tips to avoid guilt around food. 3. Which TV shows does Tom Kerridge currently appear on in 2026? Tom Kerridge judges on BBC Two’s Great British Menu in its 2026 series. He returns as a veteran mentor alongside figures like Lorna McNee. He also features in other BBC programs, contributes to magazines, and runs his YouTube channel with recipes and tips. His media presence keeps him connected to fans who enjoy his practical, enthusiastic style. 4. What books has Tom Kerridge written, and which one should beginners try first? Tom Kerridge authors bestsellers like Proper Pub Food, The Dopamine Diet, Lose Weight for Good, Pub Kitchen, and The Hand & Flowers Cookbook. Beginners enjoy Proper Pub Food because it features simple, hearty recipes with clear instructions. These books bring restaurant-quality ideas to home kitchens with accessible ingredients. 5. Why does Tom Kerridge call his fans “Pirates”? Tom Kerridge embraces a fun “Pirate Ship” theme across his brand. He calls followers “Pirates” to create a sense of community and adventure in cooking. His website, podcast, and social media use this playful motif to make interactions engaging. Fans join the Gut’s Potential “crew” by trying recipes and sharing their creations with #CookwithKerridge. 6. What challenges does Tom Kerridge face in the hospitality industry right now? In 2026, Tom Kerridge discusses post-Covid struggles, rising costs, and low profits in some pubs. He describes closing businesses as his hardest decision ever. He campaigns for lower VAT and business rates to support the sector. Despite difficulties, he remains positive and highlights hospitality’s rewarding nature. 7. Has Tom Kerridge opened any new restaurants recently? Tom Kerridge focuses on his existing venues like The Hand & Flowers, The Coach, Kerridge’s Bar & Grill, and The Bull and Bear. In 2026, he consolidates rather than launches big new projects. He supports other chefs and predicts strong showings in Michelin guides for British restaurants. 8. How does Tom Kerridge approach healthy eating after his weight loss? Tom Kerridge avoids “cheat days” because they lead to guilt Mary Berry Banana removes shame from food choices and eats nourishing meals most of the time. He enjoys flavorful, protein-rich dishes and maintains sobriety. He shares simple home-cooked meals that fit his lifestyle and inspire others to find sustainable balance. 9. What makes The Hand & Flowers different from other Michelin-starred restaurants? The Hand & Flowers combines pub warmth with two-Michelin-star quality. Kerridge serves bold, comforting British dishes in a relaxed setting. Guests feel welcomed rather than intimidated. This unique gastropub style earns global praise and sets a benchmark for casual fine dining. 10. Where can fans follow Tom Kerridge for the latest updates in 2026? Fans visit tomkerridge.com for recipes, books, videos, and podcast episodes. They follow him on Instagram (@cheftomkerridge), YouTube (Chef Tom Kerridge), and other platforms. He shares cooking tips, industry thoughts, and personal insights regularly to keep his “Pirate” community engaged and inspired. To Get More Lifestyle Insights Click On Claudia Winkleman: The Warm, Witty National Treasure Who Lights Up British TV David Caves: Silent Witness Star’s Journey from Belfast Stages to Global Fame Ellie Costello: The Dynamic Force Reshaping British Journalism in 2026 Dani Dyer: From Love Island Triumph to Family Bliss and TV Domination – Her Inspiring 2026 Story To Get More Info: Yorkshire Herald Post navigation Dave Fishwick: The Burnley Lad Who Built the Bank of Dave and Took on Global Finance Community Events, Country Shows and Wet Weather Preparedness