Dr. Robert Walton MBE — The Godfather of Hospitality on Legacy, Leadership & the Future of the Industry

In this episode of Lifting the Curtain, host Andy Downton sits down with hospitality icon Dr. Robert Walton MBE — widely regarded as the Godfather of Hospitality.From opening his first restaurant at just 24, to shaping generations of chefs, restaurateurs, and hospitality professionals, Bob shares a candid, insightful, and often unexpected reflection on a lifetime in the industry.This conversation goes far beyond career milestones. It explores purpose, mentorship, reinvention, and why hospitality’s future depends on investing in people — not just profit.In this episode, we cover:The moment Bob realised hospitality was his callingOpening and selling restaurants in his 20s — and the lessons learned earlyWhy “my job has only just begun” still defines his outlook todayHow COVID reignited his passion for food, craft, and produceThe evolution of hospitality from catering to cultureWhy government still misunderstands the hospitality sectorBuilding a global legacy through Young Chef, Young Waiter & Young MixologistWhat it was really like receiving an MBEThe power of mentorship — and why the next generation must be better than us