Gordon Ramsay: “If You Don't Like It, Turn Over”

Why is Gordon Ramsay’s approach to his craft, his business and life itself confrontational and committed, yet utterly compelling?

- Paul Dargan

Read up on the great philosophers, or listen to one of our astute thinkers of the modern era, and most will tell you that arrogance is a shield to a lack of knowledge and some very deep-seated insecurities.

That makes understanding Gordon Ramsay something of a conundrum. Even the chef and restaurateur’s greatest admirers recognise a sense of haughtiness in the make-up of someone who has persistently hunted down the next challenge.

The most decorated chefs are where they are because of their ability to perform, manage and excel in one of the most stressful work environments imaginable.

“I’m the same as anyone else,” says Ramsay. “I’m the product of discipline, bloody-mindedness, passion, being organised, being clear in my goal, and perhaps even a bit of selfishness. You know, success won’t just fall onto your lap—you’re going to have to work f*****g hard for it; but I will guarantee you that with the right amount of effort and a basic requirement that you’re not an idiot, you can get somewhere… anyone can.”

Of course, the Gordon Ramsay we encounter away from the pressured atmosphere of the restaurant is very different to that bullish, bulldozing, bombastic character who stomps, swears and curses his way through various globally distributed television series and concepts.

Without for a moment suggesting the 53-year-old Scot is softening in his middle years, in conversation he is reflective, grateful for what he has, loving and funny… although still unapologetically brash.