My Story

Where it all began

Gaz Oakley is classically trained chef originating from Cardiff, Wales. 

Gaz developed a passion for cooking at an early age, influenced by his father’s culinary skills. By the age of 15, he was already working in professional kitchens, gaining valuable experience and honing his craft. 

After many years working in top restaurants & a sabbatical from the industry and a few health issues, he made a big change to adopt a plant based lifestyle. With this new lifestyle, his passion for cooking exploded again. 

In 2016 Gaz launched a YouTube channel sharing his stories through food. Since then he’s reached over 1.6 million subscribers, made a series in Wales, Mexico & Jamaica & written 3 best selling cookbooks. 

During the covid lockdowns, Oakley transitioned from living in London to a homestead in the Welsh countryside which has had a profound effect on his whole philosophy & outlook on food & life in general. 

Motivated by his desire to connect more deeply with the food he prepares and to promote self-sufficiency. In the countryside, Gaz has dedicated himself to growing his own food, embracing the principles of organic farming and permaculture, even adopting some rescued chickens all with the goal of encouraging his audience to become a little more self sufficient & reap the many benefits of growing your own. 

The hands-on approach to growing food has allowed Gaz to develop even more innovative and seasonal recipes, reflecting the bounty of his garden. He often shares the improvements he notices in his all round physical & mental health thanks to the wonders of being at one with nature.

Gaz’s future plans are to open a wellness retreat on land he rewinds, where he can teach visitors how to grow, cook, forage, reconnect with nature & serve up his plant forward meals. 

Thank you for reading.