Celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay has firmly rejected the idea of creating menus tailored for diners using weight loss medications, stating there is “no way” he will cater to such trends. In an interview with the Sunday Times, Ramsay expressed his disdain for the concept of “diet-friendly” options, particularly in light of the recent introduction of menus by other chefs, such as Heston Blumenthal, who launched a “mindful experience” menu at his restaurant, the Fat Duck, in September 2023.
Ramsay’s response was emphatic, declaring, “That is absolute bulls***. There’s no f****** way we’re giving in to the Mounjaro jab.” He criticized the diners themselves, suggesting that their overeating is the root of their concerns. He added, “There’s no way that we’re coming in with an Ozempic tasting menu to make you feel like less of a fat f*** by 10.30 in the evening.”
Self-Discipline and Industry Challenges
The 59-year-old chef emphasized the importance of self-discipline in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. He reflected on the evolving demands of modern diners, stating, “The older you get in this industry, you feel the downside of not getting the balance right.” Ramsay feels that contemporary expectations, including various dietary requirements, complicate the culinary landscape significantly compared to 20 or 30 years ago. He remarked, “[I get] incredibly p***** off with the boring philosophers who go, ‘Well in my day it was much harder’. No, it wasn’t.”
Ramsay is also a family man, with his wife Tana Ramsay and their children, including Megan, 27, twins Jack and Holly, 25, Tilly, 24, Oscar, six, and Jesse, two. He believes that maintaining discipline is crucial not only in the kitchen but also in personal life.
Health Scares and Public Image
This summer, Ramsay underwent surgery to remove a cancerous growth from his face. He later clarified that his disclosure about the surgery was intended to counter speculation about potential cosmetic procedures, specifically a facelift. Sharing an image of himself with a plaster on his jawline, he aimed to raise awareness but admitted that was not his primary intention. He noted, “That f****** plaster was the size of a book cover, so I had to come clean.”
While the health scare was alarming, Ramsay expressed gratitude that it was addressed promptly. He described the experience as “a scare” but emphasized the importance of transparency in the face of public scrutiny, referencing the challenges faced by figures like Simon Cowell regarding appearance-related speculation.
Ramsay’s candid remarks and refusal to conform to industry trends highlight his commitment to traditional culinary values and personal integrity. As he continues to navigate the pressures of fame and health, Ramsay remains a prominent voice in the culinary world, steadfast in his approach to cooking and dining.
