James Martin, one of Britain’s most beloved celebrity chefs, has hinted at a potential move abroad for his retirement. The TV favorite, known for his appearances on shows like James Martin’s Saturday Morning on ITV and the BBC's Saturday Kitchen, has previously disclosed his affection for a country where he might "probably retire".
His culinary adventure began early on, particularly shaped by his experiences in France—a nation close to his heart. Martin’s connection with France started at just seven years old, when he first visited Saint-Émilion, near Bordeaux, influenced by his father's wine importing business. Recalling his early experiences with French cuisine, he remarked, "It was stuff I’d never seen before - woodcock stews with the head and beak, and the guy next to you would cut the head in half and pick out the brain. You had to eat it. There was nothing else. I thought it was fantastic." This formative encounter laid the groundwork for his future culinary endeavors.
Despite facing language barriers, Martin's talent shone through at just 13 years old when he landed a role at a prestigious two-star Michelin restaurant, earning his first chef's jacket and set of knives. His career quickly advanced from there; he became head chef at Bistro du Vin in Winchester before opening his own establishment, The Leeds Kitchen, back in 2011. With roots tracing back to North Yorkshire, Martin's love for France has remained consistent throughout his life and career, shaping him as the acclaimed chef and television personality he is today.
Currently, Martin runs several establishments, including The Lygon Arms and The Kitchen at Chewton Glen. The thought of relocating abroad may seem complex, but he retains fond connections to France. Chris Millinship, who welcomed Martin at his B&B in Dordogne, insists Martin's passion for the country is still alive. Speaking to Complete France, Millinship shared, "James actually said to me, ‘I wouldn’t mind having a place like yours and doing 50 meals a day.’ You can see the call of France is still there; he’s got many fond memories of France."
Martin has openly expressed his deep connection to France, detailing his favorite regions on The Travel Diaries with Holly Rubenstein. When asked about the parts of the country he feels most tied to, he revealed, "I think really probably the middle - an area called Saint-Paul-De-Vence. That’s probably where I’m gonna be retiring." His praise for the French approach to food is evident as he said, "Wherever you go in France, there is just a uniqueness in terms of food. It is such an important part of their life; it is the forefront of what they are."
An interesting comparison he drew notes the cultural priorities of Italy and France; he explained, "Italy it is fashion and food, probably fashion first, whereas France is just about the food. I love their ethos— you have to have butchers, fishmongers, and boulangeries, and they all have to be within the village. They keep it, and they look after it." He elaborated on the support for individual suppliers and producers, emphasizing the uniqueness of French markets, where you would rarely find two sellers of the same product side by side.
While James Martin contemplates his potential retirement destination, his rich history and contributions to the culinary world remind us why he remains one of the most notable figures in British gastronomy. His early French inspirations not only forged his career path but also continue to influence his thoughts on food. His deep connection to France is palpable, and whether or not he makes the leap to retire there, one thing is clear: France holds a special place in James's heart.