Celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay recently reported an unusual crime wave at his new London restaurant, Lucky Cat 22 Bishopsgate: a mass theft of nearly 500 Cat Figurines in a single week. These aren’t just any decorations; they are maneki-neko, traditional Japanese beckoning cat statues believed to bring good fortune, and a signature element of Ramsay’s Lucky Cat restaurants.
The famed restaurateur, known for his fiery television personality and Michelin-starred cuisine, revealed the astonishing inventory shrinkage on ITV’s The Jonathan Ross Show. “The cats are getting stolen,” Ramsay stated, highlighting the sticky-fingered patrons. “There were 477 stolen last week – they cost £4.50 each.” This feline larceny amounts to a loss of over £2,146.50 in just seven days, a significant sum in missing restaurant décor.
Maneki-neko cat figurines, easily recognizable by their raised paw, are deeply rooted in Japanese culture as symbols of luck, wealth, and prosperity. Typically depicted as white cats with vibrant red collars, these charming figures are often placed at entrances of businesses and homes to welcome good fortune. For Ramsay, they were intended to be an integral part of the ambiance at Lucky Cat, located in the towering 22 Bishopsgate, adding an authentic touch to the Asian-inspired eatery.
Despite Ramsay’s public declaration of the cat figurine capers, the City of London police have stated they have not received any reports of theft from the restaurant. Whether this is due to the restaurant handling the issue internally or a miscommunication remains unclear.
Beyond the purloined cat figurines, Ramsay reflected on the expansive growth of his culinary empire, boasting over 80 restaurants worldwide. He noted the sometimes “scary” scale of his global impact but lauded his dedicated teams and chefs. He also celebrated the remarkable 24-year three-Michelin-star anniversary of his flagship Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, a testament to his enduring success in the competitive fine-dining world.
In a lighter vein, Ramsay also shared family news on the show, mentioning his daughter Holly Ramsay’s upcoming “Christmas wedding” to Olympic swimmer Adam Peaty. He recounted Peaty seeking his blessing in a heartwarming moment, further showcasing the chef’s life beyond the kitchen and, of course, the case of the missing cat figurines.
