Gordon Ramsay: Beyond the Kitchen Heat

The six-part Netflix series, Being Gordon Ramsay, offers an extended look into the TV chef’s ambitious attempt to launch multiple eateries simultaneously. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the high-stakes world of restaurant ownership, and a lucrative opportunity for Ramsay, who’s essentially advertising himself for six hours on a streaming platform – and getting paid handsomely for it.

A Culinary Colossus Rises

Being Gordon Ramsay follows the chef and television personality as he embarks on his most ambitious venture yet: opening seven (it feels like seven!) restaurants on the top floors of 22 Bishopsgate in London. The project includes a 60-seat rooftop garden restaurant with a retractable roof, a 250-seater Asian-inspired restaurant called Lucky Cat, a Bread Street Kitchen brasserie, and a culinary school. The scale of the undertaking is immense, described as “high risk, high reward” and a “once in a lifetime opportunity.” Ramsay himself admits that failure isn’t an option, stating it would be “one of my final stakes in the ground.”

Family Life and the Pursuit of Perfection

The series doesn’t shy away from Ramsay’s personal life, beginning with a heartwarming (and slightly critical) family scene. His youngest children are enjoying pancakes, which Ramsay deems too thick, preferring crepes. His wife, Tana, gently asks him to “give it a rest,” a sentiment likely echoed frequently. This interaction highlights a defining characteristic of Ramsay: his relentless pursuit of perfection. Gordon Ramsay, a Michelin-starred chef, is driven by an unwavering commitment to excellence, a trait ingrained in his very being.

He’s deeply involved in his children’s lives – Megan (27), twins Holly and Jack (25), Matilda (23), Oscar (6), and Jessie James (18 months) – supporting their milestones, from weddings to culinary pursuits. His energy seems inexhaustible, and his children clearly adore him, while also understanding his demanding nature.

A Demanding Leader, Respected by His Team

This same dynamic extends to his professional life. His chefs respect him because he’s “walked the walk,” and they strive for excellence, both for him and for themselves. The series showcases a team dedicated to upholding an abstract ideal: the belief that everyone should work to the highest standard, simply because it’s the right thing to do. This dedication prevents Being Gordon Ramsay from becoming a purely sensationalized spectacle.

Attention to Detail: The Key to Success

The series also highlights the meticulous attention to detail required for a successful restaurant launch. From menu development and tastings (ensuring a rum baba is perfectly aerated) to seemingly minor details like apron pockets and seating arrangements, Ramsay is involved in every aspect. He understands that even small choices can impact profitability – a single cover (seat) can generate £300 a night.

A Polarizing Personality

Ramsay’s direct and often blunt communication style is well-known. However, the series suggests that his actions are always purposeful, and he moves on quickly. Dealing with him requires confidence and a strong sense of self, but as some might argue, any difficulty lies with the individual, not with Ramsay himself. He remains a polarizing figure, sparking strong reactions from viewers. Being Gordon Ramsay offers a fluffy yet insightful look into his world, leaving it to the audience to decide whether to enjoy it or not. Ramsay, undoubtedly, has more pressing matters to attend to.

Being Gordon Ramsay is currently streaming on Netflix.