Simon Rimmer is one of Britain’s most recognizable chefs, celebrated not only for his culinary skills but also for his warm personality and natural charm on television. Best known as the co-host of Sunday Brunch, he has inspired millions with his creative approach to food, innovative recipes, and down-to-earth style. From self-taught beginnings to becoming a household name, Simon’s journey proves that passion and perseverance can turn any dream into a flavorful reality.
Quick Bio
| Full Name | Simon Peter Rimmer |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | May 5, 1963 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 62 years old |
| Birthplace | Wallasey, Merseyside, England |
| Nationality | British |
| Profession | Chef, Restaurateur, TV Presenter, Author |
| Known For | Co-hosting Sunday Brunch and Something for the Weekend |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Ali Rimmer |
| Children | Two (Hamish and Florence) |
| Height | 6 ft 2 in (188 cm) |
| Restaurants | Greens (Didsbury), Earle (Hale) |
| Net Worth (Estimated) | $3 – $5 Million USD |
Early Life and Background
Simon Rimmer was born in Wallasey, Merseyside, England, on May 5, 1963. Growing up in the North West of England, Simon’s childhood was filled with creativity and curiosity. Interestingly, cooking wasn’t his first career dream. He was initially more interested in design and studied fashion and textile design, but destiny had something different in store for him.
His family valued hard work and creativity, both of which shaped his personality. The warmth of home-cooked meals and his fascination with flavors eventually guided him toward the kitchen. Simon’s early environment encouraged exploration and expression — two qualities that later became vital in his culinary and media careers.
Date of Birth and Age
Born in 1963, Simon Rimmer is 62 years old as of 2025. Despite being in his early sixties, he continues to exude youthful energy both on television and in the kitchen. His decades-long experience gives him a confidence that shines through in every project he takes on. With age, he has refined his craft, becoming not just a chef but also a mentor, author, and entrepreneur who continues to inspire future generations of food lovers.
Education and Early Interests
Before becoming a celebrated chef, Simon Rimmer pursued an education in fashion and textile design at Sheffield Polytechnic (now Sheffield Hallam University). His initial ambition was to enter the world of design, and that creative foundation still influences his culinary presentations today.
While studying, Simon developed a side interest in cooking. What started as a hobby — experimenting with flavors and making meals for friends — soon became a passion. His creativity found a new outlet in food, where colors, textures, and composition played as big a role as they did in fashion. This artistic sensibility set him apart when he later entered the restaurant industry.
Career Beginnings
Simon Rimmer’s journey into the culinary world is a classic story of passion meeting opportunity. He is a self-taught chef, a fact that makes his success even more remarkable. In 1990, with little professional training, Simon took a leap of faith and opened his first restaurant, Greens, in Didsbury, Manchester.
At the time, Greens was a small vegetarian restaurant with a simple mission: to make vegetarian food exciting. Against all odds, it became a massive success and quickly earned critical acclaim for its fresh, modern approach to plant-based cuisine. Simon’s creativity, combined with his knack for flavor balance, made the restaurant stand out at a time when vegetarianism was still considered niche.
The experience taught him everything about the restaurant business — from cooking to managing staff and handling customers. Every challenge became a lesson, and his determination transformed Greens into one of Manchester’s most loved dining spots.
Rise to Fame
The success of Greens laid the foundation for Simon Rimmer’s rise to national fame. His approachable demeanor and innovative food philosophy soon caught the attention of television producers. He began making guest appearances on food programs before landing his big break as co-host of the BBC show Something for the Weekend, alongside Tim Lovejoy.
The show became an instant hit, mixing cooking with entertainment and celebrity interviews. Simon’s friendly personality and sense of humor made viewers feel like they were cooking with an old friend. When the program evolved into Sunday Brunch on Channel 4 in 2012, Simon continued his partnership with Lovejoy, and the duo became one of British television’s most beloved pairs.
Television Career
Over the years, Simon Rimmer has become one of the UK’s most popular TV chefs. Beyond Sunday Brunch, he has appeared on shows such as Great British Menu, Tricks of the Restaurant Trade, Recipe for Success, and Ready Steady Cook. His TV presence is built on authenticity—he doesn’t just teach recipes; he shares his love for food, storytelling, and people.
In 2017, Simon joined the cast of Strictly Come Dancing, showcasing his fun side and gaining a new wave of fans. Though he didn’t take home the glitterball trophy, his participation highlighted his willingness to take on challenges with humor and humility.
Cookbooks and Business Ventures
Aside from his television career, Simon Rimmer is also a successful author. He has published several cookbooks, including The Seasoned Vegetarian, The Rebel Cook, and Men Love Pies, Girls Like Hummus. Each book reflects his creative yet practical approach to food — combining everyday accessibility with bold flavor.
Simon’s business ventures continue to grow. Along with Greens in Didsbury, he co-founded Earle Restaurant in Hale, Cheshire, which further solidified his reputation as an innovative restaurateur. His restaurants are known for offering hearty, modern British and vegetarian dishes that appeal to both foodies and casual diners.
Personal Life and Relationships
Away from the cameras, Simon Rimmer is a devoted husband and father. He has been married to Ali Rimmer for many years, and together they share two children, Hamish and Florence. Despite his busy schedule, Simon prioritizes family time, often sharing glimpses of his personal life with fans on social media.
He has described his family as his biggest support system and source of grounding. His ability to balance a thriving career with a stable family life adds to his charm and relatability — qualities that have endeared him to audiences across the UK.
Age and Physical Appearance
At 6 feet 2 inches tall, Simon Rimmer has a commanding yet approachable presence. His friendly smile and easygoing demeanor perfectly suit his role as a TV host. Known for his casual style — crisp shirts, rolled sleeves, and a confident stance — he embodies both professionalism and warmth.
Even in his sixties, Simon maintains an energetic lifestyle, reflecting his enthusiasm for both cooking and life. His trademark look, featuring short hair and a clean-cut appearance, makes him instantly recognizable to fans.
Awards and Recognition
Throughout his career, Simon Rimmer has received numerous accolades for his contributions to British cuisine and entertainment. His restaurant Greens has been listed among the UK’s top vegetarian dining destinations, while his TV shows consistently enjoy high ratings and viewer loyalty.
Beyond formal awards, Simon’s greatest recognition comes from his fans and peers, who respect his authenticity and lifelong commitment to making great food accessible and enjoyable.
Interests and Lifestyle Outside Cooking
When he’s not filming or managing restaurants, Simon Rimmer enjoys an active, balanced lifestyle. He’s passionate about fitness, music, and football, and is a well-known supporter of Liverpool FC. His sense of humor and love for social interaction make him a frequent guest at charity events and food festivals.
He’s also passionate about sustainability and healthy eating, often encouraging people to reduce waste and make mindful food choices. His interests beyond cooking reflect his well-rounded personality — creative, compassionate, and endlessly curious.
Conclusion
From self-taught beginnings to television stardom, Simon Rimmer has built a career defined by passion, creativity, and authenticity. His journey shows that success doesn’t always follow a straight path — sometimes it’s born from taking risks, learning by doing, and staying true to one’s values.
Whether he’s cooking vegetarian masterpieces at Greens, laughing on Sunday Brunch, or writing his next cookbook, Simon continues to inspire audiences with his genuine love for food and people. His legacy is one of warmth, talent, and innovation — proof that the recipe for success starts with heart.
FAQs
Who is Simon Rimmer?
Simon Rimmer is a British chef, restaurateur, and television presenter best known for co-hosting Channel 4’s Sunday Brunch.
Where was Simon Rimmer born?
He was born in Wallasey, Merseyside, England, where his passion for creativity and food began.
How old is Simon Rimmer?
Born on May 5, 1963, Simon Rimmer is 62 years old as of 2025.
Is Simon Rimmer a trained chef?
No, he is a self-taught chef who learned through hands-on experience and experimentation.
What restaurants does Simon Rimmer own?
He co-owns the famous vegetarian restaurant Greens in Didsbury and Earle in Hale.
What TV shows has Simon Rimmer hosted?
He is best known for Sunday Brunch and previously co-hosted Something for the Weekend with Tim Lovejoy.
Is Simon Rimmer married?
Yes, Simon Rimmer is married to Ali Rimmer, and they have two children, Hamish and Florence.
What cookbooks has Simon Rimmer written?
He has authored several popular cookbooks, including The Rebel Cook and Men Love Pies, Girls Like Hummus.
What type of food is Simon Rimmer known for?
He is known for his modern British and vegetarian cuisine with creative, flavorful twists.
What football team does Simon Rimmer support?
Simon Rimmer is a passionate supporter of Liverpool FC.
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