Paul Ainsworth

A classically trained chef, Paul Ainsworth served his apprenticeship working under some of the most respected figures of the contemporary era.



Born in Southampton in 1979, Paul studied catering and hospitality at Southampton City College before following the lights to London's restaurant trade. From 1998, he spent two years with Gary Rhodes at Rhodes in the Square, and then three years with Gordon Ramsay working at Royal Hospital Road.

In 2003, Paul moved to the original Petrus site to work for Marcus Wareing for three years before finishing his time in London at the Berkeley Hotel with Marcus.



After eight years of living in London working eighteen-hour days, a pivotal moment in Paul's career occurred upon meeting Derek Mapp, with whose backing Paul and friends opened Number 6 in 2006, developing an ambitious menu.



When Paul took sole occupancy in 2009, Derek played an influential role outside the kitchen as Paul's business partner, friend and mentor.

Meanwhile, Paul reworked the menu around the ethos it holds today: quality ingredients, often humble in nature, used to create meals with smooth clean flavours that offer great value for money.

Paul’s cooking is all about making the most of what is on his doorstep in Padstow and moving to Cornwall proved to him that the only way to cook is with local, seasonal produce, which is reflected in his restaurant’s menus.

In 2010, Paul and Derek bought Rojano's, a long-established Italian restaurant in the heart of Padstow. After a complete refurbishment and a new name - Rojano’s in the Square - the restaurant is going from strength to strength whilst still maintaining the ethos that has built a loyal following.



Earlier this year, Paul appeared on the BBC2 TV series Great British Menu. Competing against some of the nation’s top chefs, Paul won the regional heats to represent the South West.



In the final, his dessert ‘A Taste of the Fairground’ was chosen by the judges to be served to 100 guests at a lavish feast taking place at Leadenhall Market in London. 



The Fisherman’s Mission in Penzance and The RNLI in Padstow inspired Paul’s menu for the banquet, and representatives from the organisations were invited to attend as guests of honour.

Paul is a regular user of Twitter and can be found @paulainsw6rth.