Without Reservation
Lessons from a Life in Restaurants
On 9 October 2025, Jeremy King published his first book. Part memoir, part learnings shared, Without Reservation – Lessons from a Life in Restaurants reveals anecdotes from a 50-year career and with wit and wisdom offers insight into some of life’s most intriguing issues.
“Wildly, warmly and wonderfully readable and revealing”
Stephen Fry
Owing to the curious intimacy between restaurateur and guest, Jeremy has witnessed countless heartbreaks, failures, challenges and celebrations. His advice has been sought widely over the years, and in this book he gives a series of valuable reflections on everything from the art of a quick ‘no thanks’ to trickier dispute resolution. Restaurants are microcosms of life, and the skills learnt in hospitality – such as communication, empathy and discipline – can be profoundly beneficial for everyone.
Jeremy talks of the alluring mystery of solo diners, misperceptions about which are the best tables and why you should always look a waiter in the eye. Alongside the secrets of his restaurants, he also shares memories of stand-out guests like Princess Diana, Mick Jagger, Andy Warhol, Lucian Freud, Harold Pinter and Lauren Bacall.
“Over the years, it’s been my privilege to receive advice, talk about restaurants and listen to the stories of the brilliant Jeremy King. Now with his honest and exquisitely detailed book, this privilege is shared. I’ve bought two copies, one to keep on my desk in The River Café and one to keep next to my bed.”
