Ever wondered how the world’s best chefs got their start? Spoiler alert: none of them were born holding a Michelin star. 

From peeling potatoes in a tiny kitchen to perfecting dishes that wow the world, every chef has a story—and yours could be next. 

At M&B, we believe big dreams can start in our kitchens, and we’re here to help you make it happen. So, let’s dive into the journeys of some of the most inspiring chefs in the world and show you how your culinary adventure could kick off with us!

Spotlight on the world's best chefs 

Here’s a quick look at some of the biggest names in food, their incredible achievements, and how they got their start:

• Gordon Ramsay – Famous for his fiery passion and Michelin-starred empire, Ramsay started as a footballer before injury redirected him to the kitchen, where he turned setbacks into culinary success.
• Massimo Bottura – The creative mind behind the three-Michelin-starred Osteria Francescana in Italy, Bottura swapped a law career for a life of pasta, proving that passion always wins.
• Clare Smyth – The first British woman to earn three Michelin stars, Smyth climbed the culinary ladder through sheer determination and a love for fine dining.
• Dominique Crenn – Known for her artistic approach to food, Crenn became the first female chef in the U.S. to earn three Michelin stars, blending her French roots with bold innovation.
• Heston Blumenthal – A self-taught chef who redefined dining with molecular gastronomy, Blumenthal started small and worked tirelessly to push the boundaries of food science.

Their stories show that culinary greatness is built on hard work, creativity, and a love for the craft.

Lessons from the best chefs in the world 

Culinary legends like Gordon Ramsay and Clare Smyth all share some key traits that set them apart. Here are the standout skills and qualities that make top chefs truly legendary:

• High standards – Ensuring every dish is prepared with precision and care, delivering exceptional quality every single time.
• Resilience – Thriving under pressure and bouncing back from setbacks.
• Leadership – Inspiring and guiding a team through the busiest, most chaotic shifts.
• Passion for food – The driving force behind crafting exceptional dishes every time, ensuring every plate is a masterpiece.

Your journey starts here: becoming a chef at M&B

At M&B, we’ve got the recipe for success, whether you’re just getting started or ready to step into a leadership role. With a variety of positions to suit your skills and ambitions, there’s a place for everyone in our kitchens.

Here’s a taste of the roles we offer:

• Chef Apprentice – Earn while you learn through our award-winning apprenticeship program.
• Kitchen Assistant – The perfect starting point to learn the ropes and build your confidence.
• Chef & Sous Chef – Create show-stopping dishes while honing your culinary skills.
• Kitchen Team Lead – Take on extra responsibility and support your team to shine.
• Kitchen Manager/Head Chef – Lead from the front, run the show, and deliver incredible dining experiences.

With hands-on training, supportive mentorship, and programmes designed to develop future leaders, your culinary career can flourish here. 

Whether you dream of running your own kitchen or simply want to create amazing food, M&B is the place to start your journey. 

Let’s make it happen! Explore our chef jobs today. 

Curious to learn more about being a chef? Check out our other blogs: 

• All your burning questions about chef jobs - answered! 
• How to answer chef interview questions 
• Working in the kitchen at different M&B brands