How a French maître d' became a British television personality

Cultures · Published 12 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: From Michelin-starred dining rooms to prime-time television, Frédéric Sirieix has mastered the art of service. Beyond the screen, the French-born hospitality expert has launched charities, written books, and even released music, building a diverse career rooted in the philosophy of care learned at his family's dinner table.

Born in Limoges, France, on 27 January 1972, Frédéric Sirieix was inspired by his parents' healthcare careers. He noted that their discussions centered on patient care and ensuring people had good experiences, a philosophy he transitioned into the service industry. After training in a Michelin-starred restaurant in France, he moved to London to work at La Tante Claire as a chef de rang.

Sirieix's professional ascent included roles at Le Gavroche, Sartoria, and Brasserie Roux. For 14 years, until December 2019, he served as the general manager of the Michelin-starred Galvin at Windows, located in the London Hilton on Park Lane. His industry expertise earned him several accolades, including being named the National Restaurant Awards' Personality of the Year in October 2011 and winning the Cateys manager of the year award in 2013.

His influence extends into education and philanthropy through initiatives like The Art of Service, a board game launched in 2011, and National Waiters Day, which he started on Christmas Day 2012. He also co-founded the Right Course in 2017 to teach prisoners about the service industry by remodeling prison staff restaurants. His media presence is equally vast, ranging from his role as Maître d' on Channel 4's First Dates to hosting BBC Two's Million Pound Menu in 2018.

In addition to television, Sirieix is an author and musician. He released the book 'First Dates: The Art of Love' in 2016 and the track 'La Vie Continue' in 2015. His personal life includes his daughter, professional diver Andrea Spendolini-Sirieix, and a marriage in February 2025 to his long-term partner in Negril, Jamaica.

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