Poppy O’Toole rises from pub kitchen worker to famous British chef

Poppy O’Toole, known online as ‘Poppy Cooks’ or the ‘Potato Queen,’ has transitioned from humble beginnings in professional kitchens to becoming one of Great Britain’s most prominent digital culinary personalities.

O’Toole’s career began with foundational roles, including working in a nursing home and peeling potatoes at The Queen’s Head pub in Stoke Prior. Following the disruption of the hospitality industry during the COVID-19 pandemic, she began creating online cooking content. She has since leveraged her Michelin-trained background to build a major food brand, publishing six cookbooks and appearing on television programs such as ‘Saturday Kitchen’ and ‘This Morning.’