Speaker 2025

Antony Worrall Thompson

Early career

In 1978 he landed a job as a sous chef at Brinkley's Restaurant in London, where his culinary talents obviously made an impression as he was promoted to head chef after just a year. After spending a six-month sabbatical period in France, Antony returned to the restaurant and incorporated all he'd learned abroad in a revamped menu. Then in 1981 he struck out on his own be opening his first restaurant, Ménage a Trois, in Knightsbridge.

Own restaurants

In a brave move Anthony - who was a favourite of the late Princess Diana - opted to serve only starters and puddings, making his location the first restaurant in London to do so. He then added to his eatery portfolio with the Notting Grill in West London, Two pubs in Henley-on-Thames, and Wiz and Woz in West London again. Sadly, in February 2009 the chef's restaurant holding company was placed into administration, leading to the loss of 60 jobs and the closure of four restaurants.

TV career

Antony made the transition into small screen chef success in 1998 with a role as the resident chef and presenter on BBC 2's Food And Drink programme. He then went on to consolidated his popular TV presence with regular appearances on Ready Steady Cook, as well as stints on celebrity specials. Other television ventures include This Morning, Richard & Judy and Masterchef. He also hosted popular cookery programme Saturday Kitchen, and fronted ITV's Daily Cooks Challenge. He took part in the second series of I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here! in 2003, and also has enjoyed success writing cookery books and for several British newspapers and magazines.

This speakers events: 

Friday 16th may 2025

This speaker has no events on Friday

Saturday 17th may 2025

This speaker Has no events on Saturday

Sunday 18th may 2025

This speaker Has no events on Sunday
Back to Ballymaloe Food Festival

Speakers 2025

Speakers confirmed for 2025 - more to follow check back soon!

Exhibitors Mayfair 2023

May 12th, 13th and 14th 2023

Friday 5pm to 10pm - Saturday 10am to 10pm - Sunday 10am to 5pm.

To receive an invite to apply for a stall please contact Bree@ballymaloe.com

2023
Exhibitors

2025 Festival Partners