Chef Neil Rankin hits back at Gordon Ramsay over drug abuse comments

Neil Rankin, chef owner of Temper in Soho, has responded on social media to Gordon Ramsay's comments about drug abuse in the industry.

Celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay said earlier this week: "Coke’s everywhere. It’s spiralling out of control."

This quote was reported on the ITV website, taken from his upcoming two-part documentary, Gordon Ramsay on Cocaine which starts this Thursday, October 19 at 9PM. In the programme, he visits different drug cartels and cocaine dealers, before swabbing the toilets in his own restaurants for the drug. He also talks about losing a close friend and colleague to a cocaine overdose in 2013.

Gordon's comments were soon a hot topic of conversation on social media. Our own chef audience had a lot to say on the subject.

Jose Morales pointed out the working conditions of the job, rather poignantly commenting:

"Maybe we can move into the new century and treat our employees properly so they do not need narcotics to make it through a shift."

Stuart MacGarvie added that there is a problem with the industry as a whole - but wasn't sure what a solution would be. He said:

Close Message - I might contribute in the future

I love what you do, let me contribute right now

"There is a problem with catering as a whole and it's use of drugs, be they nicotine, caffeine, alcohol or recreational but it takes more than highlighting it to address it.

I have no solution, just agree that it's an issue."

But it was Soho chef Neil Rankin's Facebook response that has really caught chefs' attention. Last Saturday, Neil posted a status in response to the article on FOODBEAST, personally addressing Gordon Ramsay and his comments.

Neil said:

"Drugs are a problem in every industry and if customers are doing that much coke in your restaurants you might want to look at your menus cause they ain’t eating the food. And if it’s your staff you might want to look at their rotas and give them a good night’s sleep..."

He signed off with:

"You were a great chef but you’re a terrible fucking ambassador for our industry."

So far, Neil's status has had 571 shares and over 170 comments, many of which are from professional chefs in agreement with him and criticising Ramsay.

By Jenna Lloyd
@canteenjenna

What do you think - does the industry have a problem with drug abuse? What should be done about it?

Join the debate on our Facebook page or let us know in the comments below.

Small Contribution. Big Impact.

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.