Born in Exeter in 1969, Michael was adopted into a large and caring family. His love of food came from big family meals and home-grown produce. After training at Exeter Catering College, he spent an influential three years under his mentor, Raymond Blanc. He then moved to France for a couple of years working under the late Bernard Loiseau in Saulieu and Joël Robuchon in Paris.

In 1994 Michael returned to Britain to take up his current position at Gidleigh Park. Only two months into the job, Michael was involved in a tragic car accident in which he lost his right arm. Remarkably he was back in the kitchen within two weeks, more determined than ever.

Michael founded Michael Caines Restaurants in 1999 and the next year opened his first signature restaurant Michael Caines at The Royal Clarence in Exeter. In 2003 he went into partnership with hotelier Andrew Brownsword, and together they are opening a group of boutique hotels and restaurants called ABode across the UK.

Michael is currently based in Devon, regularly cooking among side his chefs at Gidleigh Park and at ABode. In Summer 2006, Michael was awarded an MBE for services to the hospitality industry.