Paul Clerehugh, self-taught chef, operates award winning restaurants London St Brasserie, Reading. Crooked Billet. His riverside brasserie resting next to Duke Street Bridge, a little oasis of friendly personality driven service, bloody good cooking, contemporary design & relaxed informal atmosphere.

The Daily Mail coined the term ‘Gastro Pub’ in 1989 describing The Crooked Billet as one – making it Britain’s first Gastropub, although Paul points out Jesus was born in one. 1989 at 26 he purchased the pub’s lease using car loan funding – banks wouldn’t lend him money for the pub. As a bass guitarist Lloyds felt Paul lacked the necessary experience to succeed as a pub chef. Kate Winslet’s bangers & mash wedding reception helped put the Crooked Billet on the map. Paul, first pub chef winning Craft Guild of Chef Awards back in 2004; hospitality industry recognising British pubs culinary contribution. Subsequent winners include Tom Keridge, Michael Bedford, Dominic Chapman & Nina Matsunaga. Winner of SKY UK TV’s Food Hero TV series, Paul was also involved on Jamie Oliver’s School Meals TV series. Crooked Billet & London St Brasserie providing school meals.

Paul supported & researched for The School Food Trust 2006 – 2010 when Dame Prue Leith was Chair. Paul’s light-hearted foodie chat show ‘Food on Friday’ Broadcast on BBC Radio Berkshire for 16 years. He is a regular demo chef at the NEC BBC Good Food Show. in 2025 The Crooked Billet listed in The Evening Standard’s top ten pubs. Readers of Observer Food Monthly voted Paul’s Sunday roast best in Britain. Tatler magazine’s best place to eat during Henley Royal Regatta. Waitrose Food Monthly favourite foodie pub. ‘Chef Paul Clerehugh’s Crooked Billet, Stoke Row: top spot for next-level pub food & brilliant lunch location, known for its celebrity clientele & rustic charm. It is regarded as one of the country’s quintessential gastropubs, exceptional dining experience’ – Condé Nast.