Michel Roux Jr - Speaker

Michel Roux Jr. is a celebrated chef who has left an indelible mark on the culinary world through his dedication to classical French cuisine and his stewardship of the legendary Le Gavroche restaurant in London. Born into a family that shaped Britain’s gastronomic landscape, Michel’s career has been deeply influenced by his father, Albert Roux, and uncle, Michel Roux Snr., who founded Le Gavroche in 1967. Taking over as head chef in 1991, Michel maintained the restaurant’s reputation for excellence until its closure in January 2024.
Michel’s path to culinary mastery began early. Raised in a kitchen environment, his first playthings were pots, pans, and pastry. At 16, he began formal training in France, working under master pâtissiers and renowned chefs, including Alain Chapel. His career was briefly interrupted by military service in the French Army, but Michel returned to cooking with renewed passion, refining his skills at prestigious establishments in Paris and London.
After rejoining his family’s culinary empire, Michel played a pivotal role in its success, managing the Roux catering business before fully committing to Le Gavroche. Under his leadership, the restaurant retained its two Michelin stars and remained a bastion of classical French dining in the UK. Beyond the kitchen, Michel has shared his expertise through acclaimed books and television appearances, including MasterChef: The Professionals and Saturday Kitchen.
An advocate for health and well-being, Michel combines his love of cooking with a commitment to fitness, having completed the London Marathon over 20 times to support children’s charities. He is also passionate about mentoring young chefs, ensuring the next generation continues to uphold the high standards for which the Roux family is known. Michel’s influence extends far beyond the plate, making him an enduring figure in the culinary world.