‘A huge piece of culinary history’: industry pays tribute to Le Gavroche

Chefs and industry figures have shared messages of support and admiration after it was announced Michel Roux Jr will be closing his family’s Le Gavroche restaurant next January.

Posting the news on Instagram, the chef-patron of Le Gavroche in London’s Mayfair said: “It is with very mixed emotions that I announce the upcoming closure of Le Gavroche restaurant. After 56 years, we will close in January 2024, although ‘Le Gavroche’ name will continue to be a familiar presence in pop-ups and other ventures.”

Responding to the news, Monica Galetti, former senior sous chef at Le Gavroche, said: “I wholeheartedly support your decision my dearest big bro, but I won’t lie, this makes me cry and breaks my heart at the same time. But… hopefully this means we can get more time together with our growing families. Love you always.”

Clare Smyth, chef patron of the three-Michelin-starred Core by Clare Smyth, who previously worked at the Roux brothers’ the Waterside Inn, added: “We will all miss Le Gavroche! Such an inspiration to to many of us. So many incredible stories and memories. Sending love to you and all of your wonderful team.”

Paul Ainsworth, chef patron of Paul Ainsworth at Number 6 in Padstow, described Le Gavroche as “a huge piece of culinary history”, while Fred Sirieix of Channel 4’s First Dates said “a big page is turning”.

Gary Usher, chef-owner of Elite Bistros, commented: “Your family have & always will be where good food originated from in the UK. Your family changed the landscape of restaurants here forever & your legacy lives on regardless of a building. Much love & respect to you chef X.”

Roux Jr added that Le Gavroche will be hosting a series of celebratory dinners, starting from November until the closure in January, and revealed “this is not the end of Le Gavroche”, as he hinted at future pop-ups at home and abroad.

“I especially look forward to welcoming as many of you as possible over the next few months. Let’s go out with a bang,” he said.

Read more about the history of Michel Roux Jr and Le Gavroche here following the announcement of the closure here.