1 Michelin Star Chefs: James Murray, Timberyard
James Murray is the Head chef of Timberyard, Edinburgh.
Biography
Starting his career in a move from Falkirk to Tuscany, flying over a thousand miles to take a job in a small luxury hotel restaurant.
Returning to the UK, James applied to restaurants all over the country, and heard back from two men who would change his life – Raymond Blanc and Gary Jones at Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons.
Over the course of three years, James learnt everything there was to learn at Le Manoir and Raymond Blanc’s unique approach made a huge impression on him.
Timberyard
Timberyard is located on Edinburgh's Lady Lawson Street and is owned and operated by the city’s Radford family since 2012.
The restaurant has continued to reinforce its position at the forefront of both Scottish and British dining, with the Radford family, Ben, Jo, Abi, Andrew and Lisa, all actively involved in the day-to-day operations.
For 10 years, Timberyard has remained focused on ingredient-led cooking created with respect to nature and produce, and sourced from local, artisan suppliers, and Scotland’s natural larder.
Head Chef James (Jimmy) Murray is supported by Head Pastry Chef, Richard Phillips.
Front of house, Jo Radford is supported by Manager, Pete Johnson and Drinks & Bar Manager, Anna Sebelova.
Commenting on Timberyard’s first Michelin Star award,
Ben Radford, said: “The entire Timberyard team is delighted and couldn’t be more proud of such a tremendous achievement."
"Timberyard has always aimed to be at the forefront of both Scottish and British dining. The Michelin Star gives Jimmy and our team the recognition they deserve. The award also helps to firmly establish Timberyard’s place at the highest level of the country’s fine dining scene."
“To be included amongst great Edinburgh and national restaurants such as Martin Wishart’s and Lyles in London is a huge honour.”
Jo Radford, added: “The Radford family and the entire team have always strived to achieve great things at Timberyard and the family always believed in what we were capable of. With Jimmy coming on board as the final piece of the puzzle, we have now achieved the ultimate accolade and we couldn’t be more delighted."
Jo added: “Thanks to the trust and loyalty of our team, as well as the passion and professionalism they have shown, we’re also extremely lucky to be celebrating our 10th anniversary in 2023, having survived some challenging obstacles along the way. Of course, we would not be where we are today without our loyal local and international supporters. “Our standards have always been set high, and our ethos and sourcing has remained the same since day one."
Other Michelin Star Chefs
The Staff Canteen has always been more than a website—it’s a community, built by and for hospitality. We share the wins, the challenges, the graft, and the inspiration that keeps kitchens alive.
We believe in staying open to everyone, but creating this content takes real resources. If you’ve ever found value here—whether it’s a recipe, an interview, or a laugh when you needed it most—consider giving just £3 to keep it going.
A little from you keeps this space free for all. Let’s keep lifting the industry, together.



