Cateys 2025: Lifetime Achievement Award: Brian Turner

Brian Turner is a towering figure within British hospitality. With a career transcending more than six decades, leaving an indelible mark on the hospitality scene, he is a true icon.

 

The devoted Yorkshireman came from humble beginnings to earn a Michelin star and become a household name through his appearances on television, while consistently championing British cuisine, nurturing new talent and dedicating himself to countless charitable causes.

 

Turner was born in Halifax, West Yorkshire, and grew up in Morley, with his culinary journey beginning in his father’s transport café. Being one of four children, his dad liked to get him out of the house as much as possible and, by the age of 10, Brian had been made head chef of the café. “Not that we understood what that meant at the time,” he told the Shropshire Star in 2022.

 

He went on to hone his skills in some of London’s most prestigious kitchens, including Simpson’s in the Strand, the Savoy and Claridge’s, but a pivotal moment came in 1971 when, alongside Richard Shepherd, he opened the kitchens of the Capital hotel in Knightsbridge, where he made history by earning one of the country’s first Michelin stars in the 1994 Michelin Guide to Great Britain & Ireland.

 

This success was followed by his own acclaimed restaurant, Turner’s, in Walton Street, Chelsea, which he ran for 15 prosperous years, setting new standards for chef-owned establishments. His culinary philosophy has always been rooted in classic foundations, emphasising quality ingredients and honest cooking, which resonated deeply with diners and critics alike.

 

Beyond the confines of his own kitchens, Turner’s impact on UK hospitality was amplified by his extensive television career. As a resident chef on ITV’s This Morning and a regular on the hugely popular Ready Steady Cook for more than 14 years, he brought professional cooking into millions of homes. His approachable demeanour and passion for British ingredients demystified fine dining, inspiring a generation to cook and appreciate quality food.

 

His commitment to education and the future of the industry is equally profound. He is a staunch advocate for apprenticeships and culinary training, believing firmly in the importance of solid foundational skills. As the honorary president of the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts (RACA) and vice-chairman of the Roux Scholarship, he has played a crucial role in shaping the development of aspiring chefs. His longstanding involvement with the Springboard FutureChef competition, where he served as chairman for 25 years and is now a Lifetime Ambassador, is proof of his passion for inspiring young people.

 

Turner’s philanthropic endeavours are extensive and deeply personal. He is a trustee of RACA and its Adopt A School programme, which educates children about food provenance and cooking skills. He has dedicated significant time and effort to various charities, including running the London Marathon for people with Aids, has served as a trustee of the Anthony Nolan Bone Marrow Trust and is a trustee of PM Trust, which supports young people entering the industry.

 

Turner was a winner of both the Chef Award at the 1997 Cateys and the Special Award in 2004 and, in recognition of his immense contributions, he was made a CBE in 2002 for his services to tourism and training in the catering industry.

 

John Williams, executive chef of the Ritz London and president of RACA, said: “As a mentor, TV personality and passionate advocate for all things British – especially Yorkshire – Brian has always brought warmth, wisdom and wit to everything he does. His tireless dedication to education and training through RACA and numerous hospitality charities has shaped and inspired generations to come.

 

“But on a personal level, Brian has been a guiding light. He always knew when to give me space to grow, yet was there with just the right question – often delivered with a knowing wink – that made me rethink everything. I always agreed, of course. But he’s more than a mentor – he’s a great mate and a true friend.”

 

This heartfelt sentiment is echoed by chef James Martin: “Brian and I first met in a kitchen back in Yorkshire when I was 10 years old, and since then we’ve gone on to work together, consult together, be friends together, colleagues together, golfing partners together…

 

“But most of all he’s been a huge inspiration to me and my career, like many chefs. From what he stands for, what he does, what he continues to do to help the entire hospitality business. And it never stops – I tried to tell him to take a break, but it doesn’t happen – he still continues because he loves it so much.

 

“And it’s a job that we all love, but what Brian does is throw everything at it, with vigour, with passion, with enthusiasm, and even after all he’s gone through over the past couple of years, he still continues to do that.

 

“He’s a credit to the industry, it’s an honour to call him my friend and he’s an absolute bloody legend and I love him – but don’t play him at cards, because he’ll always beat you.

 

“Best of luck Brian, you deserve this massively. Huge respect and I’m so happy that he got it – happy for you, happy for your family and happy for all the people who have been through your kitchen over the years. It’s a privilege to call you a friend, it really is.”

 

Despite facing health challenges in recent years, Turner’s passion for the industry remains undimmed, and he continues to inspire and advocate for the next generation of culinary talent. His legacy is one of culinary excellence, educational leadership and heartfelt philanthropy.

 

This award is judged by members of The Caterer editorial team

 

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