Garfield Hackett is a name closely associated with the creative and hospitality sectors in London. While not a public figure in the traditional sense, Hackett has made significant contributions to the London food scene, particularly through his partnership with renowned chef and TV personality, Andi Oliver. As an entrepreneur and creative force behind several cultural ventures, Hackett has helped shape some of London’s most celebrated dining experiences. In this article, we will explore his background, career, personal life, and influence.
Garfield Hackett Early Life and Background
Garfield Hackett was born in June 1967, which makes him approximately 58 years old as of 2025. While his early life remains largely private, it is clear that Hackett has always had a keen interest in culture and creativity. He has been active in various industries, but his career began in music management and event production. He was involved in promoting artists and managing events in London, which laid the foundation for his later ventures in the creative and hospitality industries.
Details about his childhood, family, and education are not publicly available, and Hackett has kept much of his personal life out of the media spotlight. What is evident, however, is his entrepreneurial spirit and passion for bringing cultural experiences to life, which would later define his career.
Garfield Hackett Career Journey
Music and Event Production
Hackett’s career began in the music industry, where he worked in music management and event production. His roles included managing artists and organizing cultural events, helping to shape the entertainment landscape in London. This background in music and events was crucial in honing his skills in creative direction and cultural curation.
Hospitality and Culinary Ventures
In the early 2000s, Hackett transitioned into the hospitality industry. His most prominent partnership has been with Andi Oliver, a celebrated chef known for her work on television and in the restaurant industry. Together, they have co-founded several hospitality ventures, with their most notable being Wadadli Kitchen, a restaurant in Hackney Wick that celebrates Caribbean and British heritage.
Wadadli Kitchen has become a staple in the London food scene, known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse menu. Hackett’s role in the venture has been crucial; he has helped shape the restaurant’s concept and cultural direction, ensuring that it reflects both his and Andi Oliver’s vision of inclusive, community-driven dining.
Hackett’s approach to hospitality goes beyond just food; he believes in creating holistic dining experiences that engage all the senses. Whether through pop-up restaurants, immersive events, or community gatherings, Hackett has consistently sought to offer more than just a meal – he aims to create an experience that resonates with diners on a deeper level.
Glastonbury and Cultural Projects
In addition to his work in hospitality, Hackett has been involved in several cultural projects, including working at the Glastonbury Festival. He is credited with helping develop the Shangri-La and Trash City installations, which have become iconic parts of the festival. These projects highlight Hackett’s ability to combine art, culture, and entertainment, creating spaces that are both immersive and thought-provoking.
His involvement in Glastonbury underscores his long-standing commitment to creating cultural experiences that push boundaries and encourage people to engage with the world in new ways. Whether through music, food, or art, Hackett has always aimed to bring people together through shared experiences.
Garfield Hackett Family and Personal Life
Garfield Hackett is perhaps best known publicly for his relationship with Andi Oliver. The two have been together for many years, both as life partners and business collaborators. They live in East London, where Hackett has become a well-known figure in the local community.
While Hackett is not often in the media spotlight, he plays a pivotal role in Oliver’s life and career. He is described as the “thread that holds the family together” by Andi and her daughter, Miquita Oliver. Hackett is the stepfather to Miquita, a TV presenter and writer. Despite his low profile, Hackett is known for being a steady and supportive figure in both Andi’s personal life and their shared professional endeavors.
The couple’s shared passion for food and hospitality has been the driving force behind their joint ventures, including Wadadli Kitchen. Hackett’s influence extends beyond the restaurant, as he has been involved in every aspect of their business, from concept development to community engagement.
Garfield Hackett Net Worth and Financial Standing
Although Garfield Hackett’s exact net worth is not publicly available, it is clear that he has achieved financial success through his work in the hospitality industry. His ventures, including Wadadli Kitchen, have earned him recognition and respect in the London food scene. Additionally, his early career in music management and event production likely provided him with a solid financial foundation.
Hackett’s wealth is not just tied to his business ventures but also to his ability to curate unique cultural experiences that resonate with people. His work with Andi Oliver, particularly in the restaurant industry, has likely contributed to a comfortable financial standing, though precise figures are speculative at best.
Legacy and Influence
Garfield Hackett may not be a household name, but his contributions to London’s cultural and culinary landscapes are significant. Through his partnership with Andi Oliver, Hackett has helped create some of the city’s most dynamic dining experiences. His work in hospitality, event production, and cultural projects like Shangri-La at Glastonbury has left a lasting impact on the creative industries.
Hackett’s ability to blend food, culture, and community has made him a respected figure in London’s hospitality scene. His approach to business is grounded in creativity and inclusivity, making him an influential figure behind the scenes of many successful ventures.
Conclusion
Garfield Hackett is an entrepreneur, creative force, and partner to Andi Oliver. His journey from music management to hospitality highlights his ability to innovate and create memorable experiences. Though he prefers to keep his personal life out of the spotlight, Hackett’s influence in the creative industries is undeniable. His work with Andi Oliver, particularly at Wadadli Kitchen, showcases his talent for blending food, culture, and community in a way that is both impactful and meaningful.
Whether through his work at Glastonbury, his restaurants, or his cultural projects, Hackett has proven that creativity and collaboration are at the heart of his success. As his career continues to evolve, Garfield Hackett remains a key figure in shaping London’s food and cultural landscapes.