Giles Coren, born on 29 July 1969 in Paddington, London, is a well-known British food critic, journalist, and television personality. He is perhaps best recognized for his work as a restaurant critic for *The Times* newspaper, a role that has earned him widespread recognition for his sharp wit, candid opinions, and passionate love for food. Beyond his career in food journalism, Coren has appeared on several television programs, authored books, and established himself as one of the UK’s most influential culinary voices.
Giles Coren Early Life and Background
Giles Coren grew up in a family with a strong literary background. His father, Alan Coren, was a renowned British writer, humorist, and columnist, which influenced Giles’ early interests in writing. Raised in London, Coren attended *St. Paul’s School* before studying at *Oxford University*, where he earned a degree in English. His education at Oxford helped shape his career in writing, and he quickly developed an interest in food, which would become a defining aspect of his work.
Before entering the world of food journalism, Coren worked for a time as a generalist writer and editor, contributing to various publications. He soon realized his passion for food and began to focus his writing on culinary topics, gaining experience in restaurant reviewing and food criticism. His blunt yet humorous writing style quickly caught the attention of both readers and editors, leading to his appointment as the restaurant critic for *The Times* in the early 2000s.
Giles Coren Career Rise and Success
Giles Coren’s career took off when he became the restaurant critic for *The Times*. His food reviews, characterized by sharp humor, unflinching honesty, and often scathing assessments, made him one of the most recognized voices in British culinary criticism. He was not afraid to express his dislike for mediocre or overpriced restaurants, and his candid style gained both admiration and controversy. His writing pushed boundaries in food journalism, making him both a beloved and divisive figure in the industry.
In addition to his work as a food critic, Coren has written several books, including *How to Eat Out* and *The Good, The Bad, and The Hungry*. His books often reflect his strong opinions about food and dining, as well as his wit and unique perspectives on the restaurant industry. Coren’s ability to blend humor and critique has made him a popular author in the realm of food literature.
Coren has also appeared on numerous television shows, further cementing his place in the public eye. He is perhaps most famous for his role in *Giles & Sue Live the Good Life*, a television series where he and his wife, Sue Perkins, took on the challenge of living a simpler life while running a small farm. His appearances on other programs such as *The Supersizers Go…* and *Gordon Ramsay’s F Word* have showcased his lively personality and passion for food, often engaging in friendly banter and culinary challenges.
Giles Coren Personal Life and Interests
Outside of his work in food journalism, Giles Coren is known for his diverse interests, including writing, cooking, and traveling. He has often spoken about his love for food, not just as a critic, but as a passionate eater and cook. Coren’s travels have also influenced his work, as he has explored food cultures from around the world, contributing to his extensive knowledge of global cuisine.
Coren is also known for his social media presence, where he shares humorous and often controversial takes on food, restaurants, and other topics. His online persona has further expanded his influence, allowing him to connect with fans and critics alike. While his opinions can sometimes be divisive, Coren has managed to maintain a loyal following who appreciate his honesty and wit.
In his personal life, Coren has been married to television presenter Sue Perkins, with whom he co-hosted the aforementioned *Giles & Sue Live the Good Life*. The couple shares a love for food, travel, and humor, making them a popular duo in British media. Despite their public personalities, they tend to keep their personal lives relatively private, and they enjoy a relatively low-key lifestyle outside of their work in the public eye.
Giles Coren Social Influence and Public Persona
Giles Coren has become one of the most influential voices in food criticism in the UK. His work as a food writer and critic has earned him a reputation for being both brutally honest and deeply knowledgeable. His strong opinions and no-holds-barred approach to restaurant reviewing have made him a highly respected figure in the food industry. Coren’s wit and willingness to speak his mind have gained him a dedicated following among food lovers and critics alike.
While Coren’s bluntness has sometimes earned him criticism, it has also contributed to his popularity. His social media presence and media appearances have allowed him to extend his influence beyond food journalism and into general lifestyle commentary. As a result, he has become a household name in the UK, known not just for his critiques of restaurants but also for his humor, television appearances, and general opinions on food culture.
Full Name: | Giles Coren |
Birth Date: | 29 July 1969 |
Birthplace: | Paddington, London, England |
Education: | Oxford University (English) |
Spouse: | Sue Perkins (married 2014) |
Number of Children: | Not publicly disclosed |
Siblings: | Victoria Coren Mitchell (sister) |
Notable Works: | *How to Eat Out*, *The Supersizers Go…*, *The Good, The Bad, and The Hungry* |
Profession: | Food Critic, Television Presenter, Author |
Estimated Net Worth: | $4 million |