Rick Stein is a renowned English chef, restaurateur, and television presenter. His culinary expertise lies in seafood, but he has also showcased his passion for British produce in his series Food Heroes. Additionally, his recent series French Odyssey has revealed his admiration for French culture and the intimate connection between food and lifestyle.
Born in Oxfordshire to German descent parents, Eric and Dorothy Stein, Rick later spent many childhood holidays in Padstow, Cornwall. He graduated from Oxford University with a degree in English and went on to run a disco before purchasing a local nightclub in Padstow.
Rick's culinary journey began when he opened his first restaurant, specializing in freshly caught local produce, supplied by the fishermen who frequented his club. He has since run the Seafood Restaurant for over 25 years, growing it from a seaside bistro to an award-winning restaurant with an international reputation.
The Steins have expanded their business to include guest bedrooms, a Seafood Delicatessen, a gift shop, and two smaller restaurants - St Petroc's Bistro and Rick Stein's Café. The latest addition is the Padstow Seafood School overlooking the Camel estuary and a fish and chips takeaway.
Rick is highly respected by his peers and critics, winning numerous awards and honors, including the Glenfiddich Trophy for his outstanding contribution to British food and drink culture. He has also won the AA Guide Chefs' Chef of the Year for 1999-2000.
His television programs and books include Rick Stein's Taste of the Sea, Fruits of the Sea, Seafood Odyssey, Fresh Food, Seafood Lovers' Guide, Food Heroes, French Odyssey, and Mediterranean Escapes.
A committed humanitarian, Rick is the patron of several charities, including Padstow Youth Project, South West PESCA, National Mission for Deep Sea Fishermen, National Coastwatch Institution, Dyslexia Research Trust, and The National Trust.
Rick is also the head chef and co-owner of "Rick Stein at Bannisters" in Mollymook, New South Wales, Australia, and owns four restaurants in Padstow and a fish and chip shop in Falmouth, Cornwall. He is represented in London by Useful Talent.
