Glynn Purnell
About me
A Birmingham native, Glynn is one of the country’s culinary rising stars. He's also been a major influence in putting the city firmly on the culinary map.
He started cooking professionally at the age of 14 when he took on an evening job after school and hasn’t looked back. Winning dozens of awards and critical accolades for his inspired, adventurous cooking, he has remained firmly rooted in his home city where his lifelong passion for local team, Birmingham City FC was matched by his desire to win the city’s first Michelin star, an ambition gained in January 2005 as Head Chef at Jessica’s Restaurant.
Glynn set up Purnell's which is now in its 3rd year and already winning widespread praise, being awarded its first Michelin star in January 2009, along with AA restaurant of the year.
What am I looking for from BYPY candidates?
Being a finalist is a massive achievement in itself and I’ll be looking to spot those with that creative edge and thinking that make them stand out in their own field and make this competition so special.
Why I enjoy working in Birmingham
People always refer to London as the first city and Birmingham as the second city – it doesn’t work like that me. I love Birmingham; it’s my first city, the people are great, my family are close by, as are my beloved BCFC. I wouldn’t have opened my first restaurant anywhere else.
Thoughts of BYPY 10 years on
BYPY reaching its 10th anniversary is fantastic – longevity is key in all walks of life. Some relationships don’t last 10 years so to have an awards ceremony that has and has grown year in, year out is fabulous!
2010 Sponsors of BYPY
