Erin French is a renowned chef and the owner of the Lost Kitchen, a 40-seat restaurant in Freedom, Maine, that has received worldwide acclaim for its local and seasonal cuisine. But who are the people behind her success? In this article, we will explore the family background and relationships of Erin French and her siblings.
Growing Up in a Diner
Erin French was born in 1981 and grew up in Freedom, Maine, a small town with a population of less than 800 people. Her father, Jeffery Richardson, owned and operated a diner in the town, where Erin spent most of her childhood. She learned to cook from her father and took on various tasks at the diner, such as washing dishes, waiting tables, and frying pancakes.
Erin has a sister named Nina, who is two years older than her. Nina also worked at the diner and helped Erin with her chores. The sisters were close and shared a love for food and family. According to Erin, food ran through their entire family and they were surrounded by it.
Erin’s mother, Deanna Richardson, was a loving and supportive parent who encouraged Erin to pursue her dreams. She also helped Erin raise her son, Colby, who was born when Erin was 21 and dropped out of college. Deanna gave Erin the confidence and the resources to start her own underground supper club, which later evolved into the Lost Kitchen.
Facing Challenges and Finding Freedom
Erin’s life was not always smooth and easy. She faced many challenges and struggles, such as addiction, divorce, bankruptcy, and depression. She lost her first restaurant, her home, and her custody of her son. She even attempted suicide at one point.
However, Erin did not give up on herself or her passion. She moved back to her hometown and started over. She found an old mill in Freedom and transformed it into the Lost Kitchen, a cozy and intimate restaurant that showcases the best of Maine’s ingredients and culture. She also found love again and married Michael Dutton, a carpenter and a musician, in 2019.
Erin’s sister, Nina, was also there for her during her darkest times. Nina helped Erin with her recovery and supported her business. Nina is now a sales agent and a motivational nutritionist, who lives in Portland, Maine, with her husband and two children. She often visits Erin and helps her with the restaurant.
Erin’s parents, Jeffery and Deanna, are also proud of their daughter and her achievements. They still live in Freedom and are regular customers of the Lost Kitchen. They also enjoy spending time with their grandson, Colby, who is now 22 and works as a photographer.
Sharing the Spotlight and the Love
Erin French and her siblings have a strong and loving bond that has helped them overcome many obstacles and celebrate many joys. They are also happy to share the spotlight and the love with each other and with the world.
Erin has written a memoir, titled Finding Freedom, that details her life story and her journey to the Lost Kitchen. She has also starred in a Discovery+ series, also named The Lost Kitchen, that follows her and her all-female staff as they navigate the challenges and opportunities of running a restaurant during the pandemic.
Nina has also appeared in the series and has promoted her sister’s book and restaurant on her social media accounts. She has also written a cookbook, titled Nina’s Kitchen, that features healthy and delicious recipes that she and her family enjoy.
Erin and Nina are not only sisters, but also best friends and partners in crime. They are always there for each other and for their family. They are also an inspiration and a role model for many people who aspire to follow their dreams and find their freedom.