The Good Food Podcast – chef Paul Ainsworth on building a restaurant empire, working for Gordon Ramsay and running the London marathon

The Good Food Podcast

Join Samuel Goldsmith as he sits down with the renowned chef and restaurateur Paul Ainsworth at Ci Ci's Bar in Padstow to discuss Paul's culinary journey, the art of creating delicious meals and the philosophy behind running a successful restaurant empire. From reminiscing about his childhood influences to sharing anecdotes from his time with Gordon Ramsay, Paul offers a deep dive into the world of food, family and passion.

Southampton-born chef Paul Ainsworth is the talent behind Michelin-starred Paul Ainsworth at No6, Ci Ci’s Bar, Caffe Rojano, The Mariners pub, and luxury boutique hotel Padstow Townhouse. With his wife Emma, Paul has built a celebrated hospitality group in Padstow and Rock, north Cornwall. He’s a regular on Great British Menu, Saturday Kitchen, and co-hosted Next Level Chef with Gordon Ramsay. Paul began his culinary journey in his parents’ guesthouse before training under Gary Rhodes, Gordon Ramsay and Marcus Wareing. Known for bold, flavour-packed dishes and championing Cornish produce, Paul has earned accolades including GQ’s Best Chef, AA’s Restaurateur of the Year, and the Catey Chef Award. His cookbook For the Love of Food celebrates his signature family-style, ingredient-led cooking.

Bonus episode

Listen to the bonus cook-along episode.