In a year that has been the most challenging in generations for the restaurant industry, the Michelin Guide has announced two new three-star restaurants in its guide to Great Britain and Ireland 2021. It was an unprecedented event, and what is more, both of the restaurants were run by female chefs.
The call for greater gender equality in gastronomy has been getting louder and louder in recent years. It is not before time that the incredible work of female chefs has received the recognition it so richly deserves, but even in the midst of uncertain times for the industry, it is an achievement to be celebrated. When the industry regroups - maybe this year, maybe next - the landscape will have shifted for young female chefs in Great Britain and Ireland thanks to these two leading ladies of London’s gastronomy – Clare Smyth and Hélène Darroze.