Gordon Ramsay says being famous means he never gets a break from public attention. The world-famous chef revealed that no matter where he travels, people always recognize him. But he says the attention is even more intense in the United States, where his British accent gives him away instantly.
Ramsay shared these thoughts in an interview with The Times. He said, “Fame brings nonstop attention. There’s nowhere in the world where I’m not recognised, but America is a different beast. I can put on a cap and dark glasses in the UK, but over there, the moment you open your mouth they recognise the accent and you’re screwed.”
Fame follows him everywhere
Ramsay, 58, is known around the world for his TV shows like Hell’s Kitchen and MasterChef. He’s also famous for his fiery personality and blunt criticism in the kitchen. While he has fans everywhere, he admits the nonstop recognition can be exhausting. In the UK, he can sometimes avoid attention with a disguise. But in America, his voice gives him away even if people don’t see his face.
A thick skin after years of criticism
The celebrity chef also spoke about learning to ignore harsh words. Over the years, Ramsay has faced a lot of criticism for his bold behavior and strong opinions. But he says he has developed a thick skin.
“I don’t give a f*** what the critics say,” he said. “I’ve been criticised more than any chef on the planet and I’ve developed the skin of a rhinoceros.”
Despite that, Ramsay says he won’t let anyone attack his staff. “I’ll always defend my team if they’ve been hurt by a flippant remark or derogatory comment. You have to go in to bat for your team, right?”
Avoiding his own “too posh” restaurant
In a surprising confession, Ramsay said he has only dined twice at his own Michelin-starred restaurant in 25 years. Restaurant Gordon Ramsay in Chelsea, West London, holds three Michelin stars and is known for its fine dining experience. But Ramsay says the place feels too formal and not like his personal taste.
He shared this on The Savoy Originals podcast, saying, “I’ve only had dinner at Restaurant Gordon Ramsay twice in 25 years. Once was for [daughter] Megan’s birthday, and the second time was with Bradley Cooper when we were together for the film Burnt.”
Ramsay explained that he prefers simpler food and a more relaxed setting. “It’s not my style. It’s too posh for me,” he said. “It sounds weird, right? You built the place and it’s like, ‘I’m not built that way. I can’t sit there with that level. It’s bloody intimidating.’”
From humble beginnings to global fame
Gordon Ramsay’s story is one of great success. Born in Scotland and raised in England, he started out with dreams of becoming a footballer. After an injury ended that path, he turned to cooking. His drive, skills, and strong work ethic helped him rise quickly in the culinary world.
Today, Ramsay holds 17 Michelin stars across his career. He runs multiple restaurants around the world, stars in top-rated cooking shows, and has become a brand name in both the UK and the U.S.
Staying true to himself
Despite his fame, Ramsay says he prefers to keep things simple when it comes to his own meals. He enjoys comfort food and doesn’t often dine at high-end places, even if they are his own. For Ramsay, it’s more about the people he serves than the attention he gets.
“I’m a giver — not a receiver,” he said.
Why fans still love him
Even though he may be loud and intense on screen, many people admire Ramsay for his honesty and passion. He continues to teach young chefs, support his teams, and grow his global food empire. Fans respect that he remains true to himself, whether he’s shouting in a kitchen or avoiding a spotlight.
Ramsay may be recognized everywhere he goes, but he stays grounded by remembering where he came from — and by sticking to what matters most: food, family, and hard work.
