Rick Stein awarded CBE in New Year's Honours list 2018
The chef and restaurateur was awarded a CBE for services to the economy. He also received an OBE in 2003 for services to West Country Tourism.
Stein said he was 'so proud' to receive the award.
"I think that the hospitality industry, that I so much enjoy working in, is a force for good not only in the UK but everywhere," said Stein.
“To be able to travel the world as a British man, fascinated by the food and culture wherever I go and bringing it back home is a dream job, but also reinforces the importance of everyone sitting down and enjoying good food together.”
The chef opened The Seafood Restaurant with his ex-wife Jill in 1975, and his hospitality empire has since grown to over 10 sites including a pub, fish and chip shop, and more than 40 bedrooms.
The business launched its first London restaurant in Barnes last year, and the group told MCA it is planning further expansion after reporting a sales increase of 29%, to £26.1m, in the first half of 2017.
Other awards
Patrick Crerar, CEO of Scotland’s Crerar Hotel Group, was made a CBE for services to the hospitality industry in Scotland and his charity work.
MBE’s also went to Ian Harris, chief executive of the Wine & Spirit Education Trust, and Michael Moss, former general manager of Portstewart Golf Club for services to golf, tourism and charity in Northern Ireland.
Ellen Wiles, a chef at Oak Field Special School in Bulwell, Nottinghamshire, received a BEM for services to children with special dietary requirements.
Last year chef Mark Hix and Soho House co-founder Nick Jones received MBE’s for services to hospitality.
