James Martin, one of Britain's most renowned celebrity chefs, has previously hinted at a potential move abroad, with France being the country that has ignited his passion for food and could be his retirement destination. Before rising to fame as a celebrated chef, James honed his culinary skills in France, a country that he often visited due to his father's wine importing business, which frequently took them to Saint-Emilion, a village near Bordeaux. His first experience with French cuisine was eye-opening, and he recalled the unique dishes he encountered, which sparked his interest in the culinary world.

James' love affair with France began at an early age, and he has spoken fondly of his deep connection to the country, which has shaped his career and passion for food. Despite not being fluent in French, James found himself working in a two-star Michelin restaurant in Saint-Emilion at the tender age of 13, where he received his first chef's jacket and set of knives. Fast forward less than ten years, and he became the head chef at Bistro du Vin in Winchester, before opening his first restaurant, The Leeds Kitchen, in 2011. Today, he is best known for his television appearances on shows such as James Martin's Saturday Morning on ITV and BBC's Saturday Kitchen, and his love for French cuisine is evident in his latest kitchen endeavors.

James has previously expressed his deep connection with France, discussing his favourite aspects of the country, including the unique cuisine and way of life. He has compared the cultural priorities of Italy and France, stating that Italy prioritizes fashion and food, while France is all about the food, with a strong emphasis on supporting individual suppliers and producers. James has also spoken about his ideal location, revealing that he would like to retire in the middle of France, in an area called Saint-Paul-De-Vence, which offers a unique and authentic French experience. His passion for French cuisine is evident in his latest cookbook, Cheese, which features recipes that bring back memories of his time in France, and he has advised on the perfect cheeseboard, recommending a Comté as a hard cheese, which is the biggest-selling cheese in France and aged similar to cheddar, using traditional methods.

James' love for France is not just about the food, but also about the way of life, which he believes is unique and special. He has spoken about the importance of having a butcher, a fishmonger, and a boulangerie in every village, and how the French support individual suppliers and producers. His experiences in France have played a significant role in shaping his culinary career, and he has often spoken about the influence of French cuisine on his cooking style. With his strong ties to France, it is clear that a move to the country could be on the horizon, and James has hinted that he would not mind having a place in France, where he could cook for 50 people a day and enjoy the unique French way of life.

For now, James remains busy with his TV commitments and culinary ventures, but it is clear that France still holds a special place in his heart. His latest cookbook, Cheese, is a testament to his love for French cuisine, and his advice on the perfect cheeseboard is a reflection of his passion for quality food. As James continues to explore the culinary world, it is likely that his love for France will remain a constant theme, and his fans will be eager to see what the future holds for this celebrated chef. With his deep connection to France and his passion for French cuisine, James Martin is sure to remain a prominent figure in the culinary world, and his love for France will continue to inspire his cooking and shape his career.