The Chefs Story

Originally from the West Midlands, Richard Johnson relocated to Suffolk in 2002 at just 15 years old to pursue his passion for becoming a chef. 

He began his culinary journey training with the team at Seckford Hall in Woodbridge, before advancing his skills at the prestigious Thornbury Castle in Bristol. It was there that he immersed himself in the world of fine dining, preparing dishes for celebrities and high-profile corporate events. During his two years there, he contributed to the team’s efforts aiming for a third AA Rosette.

Eager for new challenges, Richard set his sights on France. In Paris, he took charge of the kitchen at Les Fontaines, a classic French bistro, where he crafted daily menus and quickly elevated the restaurant to become the highest-rated in the 11th arrondissement.

His success in Paris led him back to the world of high-end gastronomy, joining the team at the luxurious five-star hotel-restaurant Les Bains. There, he worked under acclaimed chef Michaël Riss and Michelin-starred executive chef Phillip Labbé.

A move to Aix-en-Provence followed, driven by family life, offering Richard the chance to further expand his culinary horizons and refine his techniques within the rich food culture of southern France.

In 2018, he came back to Suffolk with his family and launched Private Chef Richard, which has since grown into a highly successful and sought-after culinary service.