Who is Paul Ainsworth? All About the Renowned Chef & Restaurateur

Paul Ainsworth is a celebrated British chef and restaurateur known for his innovative take on modern British cuisine. With years of experience working under some of the world’s best chefs, he has established himself as a Michelin-starred chef with multiple successful restaurants in Cornwall, UK. His passion for using locally sourced ingredients and delivering exceptional dining experiences has made him a respected figure in the culinary industry.
Quick Bio Of Paul Ainsworth
Full Name | Paul Ainsworth |
---|---|
Date of Birth | 1979 |
Age | 45 (as of 2024) |
Birthplace | Southampton, England |
Nationality | British |
Profession | Chef, Restaurateur |
Famous For | Michelin-starred restaurants, TV appearances |
Restaurants | Paul Ainsworth at No6, The Mariners, Caffè Rojano |
Awards | Michelin Star, AA Rosettes, TV Chef Competitions |
Spouse | Emma Ainsworth |
Net Worth | Estimated in millions |
Early Life & Background

Paul Ainsworth was born in Southampton, England, in 1979. He grew up in a hardworking family that owned a guesthouse, which played a major role in shaping his interest in hospitality and food. His parents, who were dedicated to their business, instilled in him the values of hard work and perseverance. From a young age, Paul was fascinated by the way food could bring people together, and this passion eventually led him to pursue a career in the culinary world.
Education & Culinary Training
Paul Ainsworth’s journey into professional cooking began when he enrolled at Southampton City College, where he studied Catering and Hospitality. His time at college gave him the foundational skills he needed, but his true education came from working in some of the UK’s most prestigious kitchens.
Determined to learn from the best, he joined Gary Rhodes’ restaurant in London, where he was exposed to the precision and discipline required in fine dining. Later, he worked under the legendary Gordon Ramsay at his three-Michelin-starred restaurant in London. This experience was crucial in shaping his approach to food, teaching him attention to detail, consistency, and creativity.
Career Beginnings

Paul Ainsworth’s career took off when he had the opportunity to work with Marcus Wareing, another world-renowned chef. Under Wareing’s guidance, he honed his skills in classic techniques while adding modern twists to traditional dishes. His time with Wareing helped him refine his culinary identity, blending elegance with bold flavors.
During these early years, Paul developed a deep appreciation for seasonal ingredients, a philosophy that would later become the foundation of his own restaurant concepts. His ability to combine technical precision with creativity set him apart, paving the way for his future success as a leading British chef and restaurateur.
Rise to Fame
After years of working in top restaurants, Paul Ainsworth took the leap and opened his own establishment. In 2005, he moved to Padstow, Cornwall, a place known for its vibrant food scene. In 2009, he took over a restaurant, which he later renamed Paul Ainsworth at No6.
His signature style blends British ingredients with contemporary techniques, creating dishes that are visually stunning and packed with flavor. His hard work paid off in 2013 when Paul Ainsworth at No6 was awarded a Michelin star, solidifying his place among the UK’s top chefs.
Aside from his restaurant ventures, Paul gained widespread recognition through TV appearances on shows like Great British Menu and Saturday Kitchen. His charming personality and impressive culinary skills made him a favorite among food lovers and aspiring chefs alike.
Paul Ainsworth’s Restaurants

Paul Ainsworth has successfully expanded his restaurant empire, bringing unique dining experiences to food lovers across Cornwall. His restaurants each have their own distinct identity while maintaining his high standards of quality.
Paul Ainsworth at No6
This Michelin-starred fine dining restaurant in Padstow is known for its elegant dishes crafted from the finest local ingredients. The menu features a mix of classic British flavors with modern innovation, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
The Mariners Public House
Located in Rock, Cornwall, The Mariners is a gastropub that offers a relaxed yet high-quality dining experience. The menu focuses on British pub classics with a gourmet twist, featuring locally sourced seafood, meats, and seasonal produce.
Caffè Rojano
Inspired by Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, this restaurant serves delicious pasta, pizza, and small plates in a casual setting. It showcases Paul’s ability to merge different culinary influences while staying true to his passion for quality ingredients.
Awards & Recognitions
Paul Ainsworth’s talent has been recognized with several prestigious awards throughout his career.
- Michelin Star – Awarded to Paul Ainsworth at No6 in 2013
- AA Rosettes – Acknowledging his excellence in British cuisine
- Great British Menu Winner – Showcasing his skills on national television
- Catey Awards Winner – One of the highest honors in the UK hospitality industry
His commitment to culinary excellence continues to earn him recognition both in the UK and internationally.
Personal Life
Paul Ainsworth is known not just for his culinary skills but also for his warm and approachable personality. He was born in 1979, making him 45 years old as of 2024. While his professional life is fast-paced, he balances it with time spent with his family.
Relationships & Family

Paul is married to Emma Ainsworth, who plays an important role in managing their restaurant business. The couple shares a strong bond and often speaks about the challenges and rewards of running a hospitality empire together.
Influence & Impact on the Culinary World
Paul Ainsworth has had a significant impact on the British food scene, not just through his restaurants but also through his work as a mentor. He actively supports young chefs, encouraging them to push boundaries while respecting traditional techniques.
His focus on locally sourced, high-quality ingredients has also influenced many aspiring chefs and restaurant owners to adopt a more sustainable approach to cooking.
Philanthropy & Other Ventures
Apart from running restaurants, Paul Ainsworth is deeply involved in charity work. He frequently partners with local food charities and organizations to support causes like reducing food waste and promoting hospitality careers among young people.
Additionally, he has ventured into cookbooks, TV shows, and hospitality training programs, further cementing his role as a leader in the culinary world.
Future Plans & Legacy
As Paul Ainsworth continues to grow his restaurant empire, his future plans include expanding his hospitality ventures, mentoring new chefs, and exploring new culinary trends. He remains committed to elevating British cuisine and delivering unforgettable dining experiences.
His legacy as a Michelin-starred chef, mentor, and philanthropist ensures that his influence will be felt for years to come.
Conclusion
Paul Ainsworth is more than just a chef; he is a culinary innovator, entrepreneur, and mentor who has made a lasting impact on the British food industry. From his humble beginnings in Southampton to becoming a Michelin-starred restaurateur, his journey is a testament to hard work, passion, and dedication.
Whether through his restaurants, TV appearances, or charity work, Paul continues to inspire food lovers and chefs across the world.
FAQs About Paul Ainsworth
Who is Paul Ainsworth?
Paul Ainsworth is a Michelin-starred British chef and restaurateur known for his innovative take on modern British cuisine and successful restaurants in Cornwall, UK.
What restaurants does Paul Ainsworth own?
He owns Paul Ainsworth at No6 (Michelin-starred fine dining), The Mariners Public House (gastropub), and Caffè Rojano (Italian-inspired eatery), all located in Cornwall, England.
Has Paul Ainsworth won a Michelin star?
Yes, Paul Ainsworth at No6 was awarded a Michelin star in 2013, recognizing his excellence in British cuisine.
Where was Paul Ainsworth born?
Paul Ainsworth was born in Southampton, England, in 1979 and later moved to Cornwall, where he established his restaurant empire.
What TV shows has Paul Ainsworth appeared on?
He has been featured on Great British Menu, Saturday Kitchen, MasterChef, and other popular UK cooking shows, showcasing his culinary expertise.
Is Paul Ainsworth married?
Yes, Paul Ainsworth is married to Emma Ainsworth, who plays a key role in managing their restaurant business.
What is Paul Ainsworth’s cooking style?
His cooking style focuses on modern British cuisine, using locally sourced ingredients with innovative techniques to create refined yet flavorful dishes.
How did Paul Ainsworth start his culinary career?
He trained under Gary Rhodes, Gordon Ramsay, and Marcus Wareing, gaining experience in top Michelin-starred kitchens before opening his own restaurants.
Does Paul Ainsworth have any cookbooks?
While he hasn’t released a personal cookbook yet, his recipes and culinary insights are frequently featured in food magazines and TV programs.
What awards has Paul Ainsworth won?
Along with his Michelin star, Paul has received AA Rosettes, Catey Awards, and accolades from TV cooking competitions, cementing his reputation as a top chef.
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