Simon Rimmer is a name that resonates with food lovers, television viewers, and anyone inspired by the creativity and warmth that great cooking brings. Known for his charming personality, inventive dishes, and impressive career spanning restaurants, books, and TV shows, Simon has become one of Britain’s most beloved celebrity chefs.
Quick Bio
| Full Name | Simon Peter Rimmer |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | May 5, 1963 |
| Birthplace | Wallasey, England |
| Nationality | British |
| Profession | Celebrity Chef, Restaurateur, Television Presenter |
| Famous For | Co-hosting Sunday Brunch on Channel 4 |
| Restaurants | Greens (Manchester), Earle (Hale) |
| Education | Self-taught Chef; Degree in Textile Design |
| Books Authored | The Accidental Vegetarian, Rebel Cook, Men Love Pies, Girls Like Hummus |
| TV Shows | Sunday Brunch, Something for the Weekend |
Early Life and Background
Simon Rimmer was born in Wallasey, a coastal town in Merseyside, England. Interestingly, before stepping into the culinary world, he studied textile design at Nottingham Polytechnic (now Nottingham Trent University). Cooking wasn’t his original career path, but his curiosity and passion for food led him to experiment with flavors at home. This creative instinct would eventually spark his journey from design to the kitchen.
Rimmer often describes himself as a self-taught chef — someone who learned the art of cooking through dedication, exploration, and a desire to bring something new to the dining experience. His early influences included British home cooking traditions and the rising popularity of global cuisines during the 1980s and 1990s.
The Beginning of a Culinary Career
In 1990, Simon took a leap of faith and opened his first restaurant, Greens, in West Didsbury, Manchester. At a time when vegetarian dining was still a niche market, Rimmer’s restaurant became a trailblazer. His goal wasn’t just to serve meat-free food, but to prove that vegetarian dishes could be rich, satisfying, and full of character.
The menu at Greens combined creativity and comfort — offering dishes like roasted vegetable lasagne, beetroot wellington, and spicy bean burgers — all made with flair and personality. The success of Greens not only marked Simon as a pioneer in vegetarian cuisine but also established his reputation as a chef willing to take risks.
Expanding Horizons: Opening More Restaurants
Following the success of Greens, Simon Rimmer expanded his culinary footprint by opening Earle in Hale, Cheshire. This restaurant showcased a broader, modern British menu that reflected Simon’s evolution as a chef. While Earle eventually closed, both establishments played a huge part in defining Rimmer’s approach: accessible, innovative, and always ingredient-driven.
Through his restaurants, Simon emphasized that good cooking is about honest flavors and quality produce, rather than unnecessary complexity. His philosophy attracted loyal diners and food critics alike, earning him widespread recognition.
Transition to Television
Simon’s charm and authenticity caught the attention of television producers, and soon he began appearing on TV. His first major television break came when he started presenting “Something for the Weekend” on BBC Two alongside Tim Lovejoy. The show combined cooking, celebrity interviews, and light-hearted banter — and it became a Sunday morning favorite for viewers across the UK.
His on-screen chemistry with Lovejoy later led to the creation of “Sunday Brunch” on Channel 4, a show that continues to enjoy immense popularity. The program blends cookery, culture, and entertainment, allowing Simon to showcase his personality and connect with audiences in a relaxed, conversational style.
Rise to Fame as a Celebrity Chef
Over time, Simon Rimmer’s presence on television turned him into a household name. What sets him apart from many celebrity chefs is his down-to-earth attitude and approachable recipes. He doesn’t rely on culinary pretension — instead, he focuses on making food that real people can cook and enjoy at home.
His humor, warmth, and spontaneity made him one of the most loved TV chefs in the UK. Whether he’s demonstrating a recipe live on air or chatting with guests, Rimmer’s authenticity has always been his greatest asset.
Signature Dishes and Cooking Philosophy
Simon’s cooking philosophy revolves around balance, creativity, and comfort. While he started with a vegetarian focus, his style has evolved to embrace modern British cuisine with global influences. His signature dishes often feature seasonal ingredients, bold flavors, and a clever use of textures.
From inventive vegetarian curries to hearty British classics, Rimmer’s recipes demonstrate that food doesn’t need to be complicated to be delicious. He also champions sustainability and ethical sourcing, believing that chefs have a responsibility to the planet as well as their diners.
Books and Publications
Simon Rimmer has authored several successful cookbooks, sharing his passion and knowledge with readers. His debut, “The Accidental Vegetarian”, remains one of the most popular vegetarian cookbooks in the UK. Other titles, including “Rebel Cook” and “Men Love Pies, Girls Like Hummus”, highlight his playful approach to food and lifestyle.
Each of his books blends practical recipes with personal anecdotes, giving fans a deeper look into his culinary journey. Through his writing, Simon encourages readers to experiment and enjoy the process of cooking — even if they make mistakes along the way.
Sunday Brunch: The Show That Defined Him
For millions of viewers, “Sunday Brunch” is synonymous with Simon Rimmer. Since its launch in 2012, the Channel 4 show has become a weekend institution. Co-hosted with Tim Lovejoy, the program combines celebrity interviews, music performances, and, of course, delicious food demonstrations.
Simon’s friendly demeanor and quick wit have made him a natural presenter. Viewers tune in not just for the recipes, but for the fun, laughter, and sense of community the show brings. It’s this ability to blend food with entertainment that truly solidified Simon’s place as a top-tier television chef.
Awards and Recognition
While Simon Rimmer is not one to chase accolades, his work has earned him respect and admiration throughout the culinary world. His restaurant Greens has been recognized as one of the most influential vegetarian establishments in the UK. Moreover, his contributions to British television cookery have made him a key figure in shaping how audiences engage with food on screen.
Personal Life and Interests
Away from the kitchen and the camera, Simon Rimmer leads a fulfilling personal life. He is married and has two children. Outside of cooking, he enjoys football, particularly supporting Liverpool FC, and spending time with his family. Simon often shares glimpses of his life on social media, maintaining a close connection with his fans through humor and positivity.
Impact on British Cuisine
Simon’s greatest legacy lies in how he helped transform public attitudes toward vegetarian and modern British cooking. At a time when plant-based food was often overlooked, he proved that it could be exciting, flavorful, and satisfying. His work encouraged other chefs to experiment with new ingredients and styles, helping drive Britain’s culinary evolution.
Legacy and Future Projects
As Simon Rimmer continues his journey, he remains committed to both innovation and accessibility in food. Whether through television, restaurants, or digital media, he continues to inspire a new generation of cooks. Future projects include developing new recipes for television, exploring food sustainability, and potentially expanding his restaurant ventures once again.
Conclusion
From a self-taught chef in Manchester to one of the UK’s most recognized culinary figures, Simon Rimmer’s story is one of creativity, determination, and passion. He embodies the spirit of the modern celebrity chef — talented, relatable, and endlessly curious. His journey reminds us that great food is not just about recipes; it’s about sharing, learning, and bringing people together.
FAQs
Who is Simon Rimmer?
Simon Rimmer is a British celebrity chef, restaurateur, and TV presenter best known for co-hosting Sunday Brunch on Channel 4.
What restaurants does Simon Rimmer own?
He co-owns Greens in Manchester, a pioneering vegetarian restaurant, and previously ran Earle in Hale.
Is Simon Rimmer a trained chef?
No, he is a self-taught chef who transitioned from textile design to cooking.
What TV shows has Simon Rimmer appeared on?
He’s been featured on Sunday Brunch, Something for the Weekend, Ready Steady Cook, and Strictly Come Dancing.
What type of food is Simon Rimmer known for?
He’s famous for modern British and vegetarian cuisine, focusing on bold flavors and sustainable ingredients.
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