Outlaw's Culinary Journey: From Expansion to Reinvention

Nathan Outlaw's culinary odyssey over the past decade has been nothing short of remarkable. The Cornwall-based chef, known for his exceptional seafood expertise, has navigated a rollercoaster of expansion, contraction, and personal growth, emerging as a more fulfilled and focused culinary artist than ever before.

Navigating the Tides of Change: Outlaw's Culinary Odyssey

Expansion and Exploration

A decade ago, Outlaw was in the midst of a rapid expansion phase, adding to his portfolio of restaurants in Cornwall and venturing into the bustling culinary scene of London and the opulent world of Dubai. With his eponymous two-Michelin-starred seafood restaurant as the flagship, Outlaw was spreading his wings, driven by a desire to share his culinary vision with a wider audience. However, this period of growth came with its own set of challenges, as the chef found himself traveling extensively and spending less time in the kitchen, a reality he admits was "a pretty mad time."

Contraction and Refocus

The tide soon turned, and Outlaw faced a period of contraction. The closure of his London and Dubai ventures, as well as the shuttering of his restaurants in Cornwall, marked a significant shift in his career. Yet, Outlaw saw this as an opportunity to refocus and reconnect with his roots. By consolidating his operations to just a couple of streets in Port Isaac, he was able to regain a sense of permanency, purchasing his own premises and settling in Cornwall full-time. This newfound stability allowed him to rediscover his passion for cooking, as he now spends the majority of his time in the kitchen, a development he describes as "a pleasure."

Embracing Simplicity and Accessibility

Outlaw's approach to cooking has remained largely unchanged throughout his career, with a steadfast appreciation for simplicity and a relentless pursuit of perfection. However, the challenges of the past few years, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, have led him to reevaluate his culinary philosophy. Recognizing the changing preferences of his clientele, Outlaw has made a conscious decision to move away from the formality of fine dining, opting for a more accessible and enjoyable dining experience at his Outlaw's New Road and Outlaw's Fish Kitchen restaurants. This shift has not only reinvigorated his team but also fostered a more relaxed and convivial atmosphere for his customers.

Staying True to His Roots

Despite the ups and downs of his career, Outlaw has remained steadfastly committed to his roots in Cornwall. The county's bountiful seafood, the proximity to the sea, and the support of the local community have all played a pivotal role in shaping his culinary identity. Outlaw acknowledges that while the summer months in Cornwall may seem idyllic, the reality is that running a successful restaurant in the region requires "bloody hard work." Yet, he firmly believes that much of his success can be attributed to the unique advantages of his coastal location.

A Lifelong Passion for Seafood

Outlaw's love affair with seafood began at a young age, when he first visited Cornwall as a child and was captivated by the region's abundant marine resources. This early exposure laid the foundation for his culinary journey, leading him to work with renowned chefs like Rick Stein and eventually opening his own seafood-focused restaurants. Outlaw's unwavering dedication to showcasing the best of Cornwall's seafood has earned him a reputation as one of the country's foremost experts in the field, a distinction he wears with pride.

Embracing Change and Staying True to Oneself

Throughout his career, Outlaw has navigated the ever-evolving landscape of the culinary industry, adapting to changing trends and consumer preferences. However, he has remained steadfast in his commitment to his own culinary vision, refusing to be swayed by the whims of fashion or the pursuit of Michelin stars. Outlaw's willingness to take risks and his ability to stay true to himself have been the driving forces behind his success, allowing him to weather the storms of the past decade and emerge as a more confident and fulfilled chef.As Outlaw continues to shape the future of his culinary empire, his story serves as a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering dedication to one's craft. From the heights of expansion to the challenges of contraction, his journey has been a masterclass in navigating the complexities of the hospitality industry, all while remaining true to his passion for exceptional seafood and the unique charms of Cornwall.