Chef
Paul Cunningham
Head Chef, Henne Kirkeby Kro
- Discipline
- Chef
- Based in
- Henne, Denmark
Known for
- Michelin-starred cuisine blending French influences with Nordic ingredients
- Jazz-inspired, intuitive cooking philosophy emphasizing spontaneity and fresh ingredients
- Sustainable gastronomy practices including farm-to-table production at Henne Kirkeby Kro
- Cooking for Danish royalty (Margrethe II) and international A-listers including Bill Clinton, Paris Hilton, and Metallica
i. Biography
The Climb
Kitchen formation here runs through pubs, country house hotels, fish station work, and Danish restaurant kitchens before ownership and long-service head chef work. Paul Cunningham worked as cook at Country pub in Widdington, Essex, England, then through cook / restaurant and country house hotel staff roles at Danesfield House and Lords of the Manor, and then on to fish cook. Today, Paul is head chef of the inn (since 2012) and member of Gelinaz!.
The Work Today
Long use of a single preparation is a practical marker of house style: it shows how a kitchen keeps an idea alive without freezing it in one form. Since 2012, Cunningham has led the kitchen there in Denmark. The restaurant is his current house, and one signature preparation carries that continuity clearly: a chocolate cream used in different guises for 20 years, prepared every day from Cunningham’s first day at the inn. “I’ve used this chocolate cream in different guises for the past 20 years. Obviously interesting and sometimes thought-provoking, yet never hard work.”
Standing
Paul Cunningham has received Michelin Guide: one star at The Paul. Recognition here spans both restaurant kitchens and a narrower competitive format. Paul's honors include Second Michelin star awarded to Henne Kirkeby Kro (2017), First Michelin star awarded to Henne Kirkeby Kro (2016), Michelin star awarded to The Paul (2003), and Danish hot-dog championship, three-time winner.
Profile updated July 2026
FAQ
Asked of Paul
What does Paul Cunningham currently do?
Paul Cunningham is chef at Henne Kirkeby Kro — New Nordic, Classic Cuisine.
Where did Paul Cunningham work before?
Earlier in their career, Paul Cunningham worked at Country pub, Danesfield House, and Lords of the Manor.
What recognition has Paul Cunningham received?
Second Michelin star awarded to Henne Kirkeby Kro (2017).
