On the auspicious occasion of International Women's Day, we come together to celebrate and honour the remarkable achievements of women who have left an indelible mark on the culinary landscape of the United Kingdom.
In the world of gastronomy, these exceptional female chefs stand as shining examples of talent, resilience, and innovation. As we pay tribute to their culinary prowess, let us embrace the spirit of empowerment and diversity that this special day represents. Join us in recognising and applauding the accomplishments of these extraordinary women who have redefined excellence in the realm of British cuisine.
Angela Hartnett - Murano London, Lime Wood Hotel, Portetta Hotel
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelacooking/?hl=en
Angela Hartnett, a trailblazer in the culinary world, owns the Michelin-starred restaurant Murano and three Café Muranos across London. Influenced by her Italian grandmother, Hartnett's culinary journey has been marked by excellence. In 2018, she received the Ayala SquareMeal Female Chef of the Year award, solidifying her status as a culinary icon. Beyond her restaurants, Angela is known for her popular podcast, Dish with DJ Nick Grimshaw.
Adriana Cavita - Cavita, El Bar de Cavita, MOLCA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cavitaadriana/?hl=en
Adriana Cavita brings the vibrant flavours of Mexico City to London with her debut solo restaurant, Cavita. Having worked at renowned establishments like El Bulli and Pujol, Cavita's expertise shines through as she skillfully cooks on the grill, delivering an authentic taste of Mexican cuisine to delighted patrons.
Adejoké Bakare - Chishuru
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chishuru/?hl=en
Affectionately known as 'Joké,' Adejoké Bakare is a rising star in the culinary scene, putting West African cuisine in the spotlight. Her debut restaurant, Chishuru, not only won a Michelin star in 2024 but also made history as Bakare became the first black woman to receive this prestigious award.
Monica Galetti - Mere
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/galettigram/?hl=en
Monica Galetti, a familiar face from her role as a judge on MasterChef: The Professionals, is the chef-patron of Mere. Her culinary journey, from Le Gavroche to owning her restaurant, reflects her dedication to the craft. Galetti's success extends from TV screens to the tables of her restaurant on Charlotte Street.
Nieves Barragán Mohacho - Sabor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nieves_barragan1/
After nine years as the executive chef at Barrafina, Nieves Barrágan Mohacho ventured into her first solo restaurant, Sabor. With a Michelin star to her name, she continues to redefine Spanish cuisine in the heart of London, drawing queues of eager diners.
Sarah Hayward - The Coach
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahhayward91/
Head chef of The Coach in Marlow, Sarah Hayward has made significant contributions to making this gastropub one of the country's best. Her culinary prowess was recognized when she won the Michelin Guide’s Young Chef of the Year Award in 2023.
Ana Ortiz - Private Chef
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anaortiz_chef/?hl=en
Ana Ortiz, with roots in the Galapagos Islands, has brought the vibrant tradition of asado cooking to the UK. As a private chef, she crafts culinary experiences with her husband, Tom, building grills for renowned chefs while showcasing her skills at various pop-ups and events.
Asma Khan - Darjeeling Express
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asmakhanlondon/
Asma Khan, the chef-owner of Darjeeling Express, is a prominent figure in London's culinary scene. Her blend of North Indian and Bengali cooking, combined with a commitment to female empowerment, has earned her recognition, including being the first British chef featured on Netflix’s Chef’s Table.
Kim Ratcharoen - Restaurant Gordon Ramsay
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chef.kim.ratcharoen/
Meriting her love of cooking to her grandma, Kim Ratcharoen has risen to become the head chef at Restaurant Gordon Ramsay. With a background that includes an apprenticeship at the renowned establishment, Kim is a rising star in the UK's culinary scene.
Sarit Packer - Honey & Co, Honey & Smoke
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/honeyandco/?hl=en
Hailing from Northern Israel, Sarit Packer, along with her partner Itamar Srulovich, runs the much-loved Honey & Co Bloomsbury and Honey & Smoke. With a focus on grill cooking, Packer's culinary journey reflects a dedication to bringing Middle Eastern flavours to the heart of London.
As we raise our glasses in tribute to these ten extraordinary female chefs on International Women's Day, let it be known that they represent just a glimpse into the rich tapestry of women shaping the culinary landscape of the United Kingdom. Countless other talented and dedicated women chefs contribute to the diversity, innovation, and excellence that characterises British gastronomy.
Today, we celebrate not only these remarkable individuals but also the collective strength and brilliance of women in the culinary arts, paving the way for a more inclusive and inspiring future. Cheers to all the women chefs who continue to leave an indelible mark on the world of British cuisine!
