Paul Kitching, a well-known Edinburgh chef, died at age of 61

Paul Kitching: Chef behind one of Edinburgh’s best restaurants, 21212, dies

Paul Kitching, who operated the 5-star 21212 eateries in Edinburgh in partnership with Katie O’Brien, was mentioned as a “real inspiration”.

Tributes have been paid to chef Paul Kitching.

Paul Kitching was deemed a “one in a million” genius, and his Edinburgh restaurant 21212 received a Michelin star only six months after it opened. He was also awarded the Prince Philip Medal for his outstanding contributions to the industry.

Paul Kitching was a well-known culinary master in the United Kingdom. The fact that his Edinburgh restaurant, “21212,” was accorded a Michelin Star within just six months of opening in 2009 attests to his “one in a million” prodigy. Paul received his 1st Michelin Star in 1997 because of his innovative cuisine at Altrincham’s Juniper restaurant, the only formation in Greater Manchester to retain a Michelin Star for 11 years.

Paul Kitching, a legendary British chef, died on Wednesday at 61. As per media reports, Paul’s partner, Katie O’Brian, confirmed his untimely death, saying it came as a complete surprise. Katie informed the distribution list of their popular restaurant, “21212,” of Paul’s death.

Katie told customers that the entire squad at “21212” had been distressed after the sudden death of the “legend inside our industry.” She tweeted a picture of Paul dressed in a costume and stated that her love had died. As word of his death circulated, several well-known chefs and celebrities expressed their condolences on social media.

Stephen Jardine, a journalist and news presenter, described Paul as an incredible skill and a great human being. MasterChef competitor and finalist Dean Banks, who also possesses an Edinburgh restaurant, described the deceased chef as a great inspiration. Renowned Manchester restaurateur Andrew Nutter expressed his sadness over a reading of the legend’s passing. Mark Poynton, Paul’s former Juniper colleague, said working alongside him was an incredible learning experience.

She shared the news through social media on Thursday: I’m sorry to announce that my beloved has passed away.

Tributes poured in rapidly.

The Michelin Guide, which examines hotel chains and restaurants worldwide, paid homage to “a true maverick” in a Twitter post.

“Paul Kitching was very kind, witty, incredibly talented, and exhilaratingly optimistic,” according to the post. He also was a real outcast, & his enthusiasm and creativity shone through every dish he prepared. Katie and his entire family have our deepest condolences.”

Online tributes poured in from industry leaders and regular food fans alike, with both expressing their feelings and recollection.

“Paul was an amazing guy – so gifted, insanely creative, but also had time to speak to everyone and listen,” one person wrote. It was a privilege to understand and work for him.”

“I will never forget my work time at Juniper; he was really an amazing, adventurous, funny, inspiring man,” one said, while the other said, “He was probably the most inspiring individual I had ever met, genius!”

Chef Dean Banks of the Pompadour on Princes Street, Waldorf Astoria, wrote a moving homage on Instagram in response to the loss.

“A true role model to thousands of restaurateurs who have passed thru the his doors and many more,” it said. Paul taught me that there aren’t any rules in the kitchen. I frequently mention lemon tart with chicken and STP with venison. Paul’s legacy will be carried along through his preparing food and teaching.

“Paul was my final Head Chef before I ended up going out completely on my own, and he was instrumental in shaping me and my style. My sincerest sympathies to all who adored him and regard him as among the greats. He will be sorely missed.”

In 2009, the couple opened 21212 on Edinburgh’s Royal Terrace. Since then, the restaurant has won numerous awards, which include the best new eatery throughout the UK, a Michelin celebrity between 2009 & 2019, four AA rosettes, and the title of Catering in Scotland’s Restaurant of the year. Kitching also received the Prince Philip prize for her contributions to the restaurant sector.

Juniper was the couple’s business in Greater Manchester before moving to Edinburgh. The restaurant has become the area’s sole Michelin-starred restaurant, was ranked in The Good Food Guide’s top 20 restaurants, and was named England’s Restaurant of the Year.