The chef-patron of three Michelin-starred Core by Clare Smyth was given the Special Award at the ceremony, held in London last night (16 June), in recognition of her contributions to the culinary world.
The protégé of Gordon Ramsay, Smyth grew up on a farm in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, and moved to England aged 16. She became the first British female chef to run a restaurant with three Michelin stars when she took over the running of Ramsay’s flagship Chelsea restaurant as chef-patron.
She later repeated the feat when her debut restaurant Core by Clare Smyth was awarded the top accolade by the red book in 2021.
“Clare Smyth is an exceptional talent whose leadership, creativity, and commitment to excellence have not only shaped her own extraordinary career but inspired countless others in our profession,” says David Mulcahy, vice president of the Craft Guild of Chefs.
“It is a privilege to honour her with this year’s Special Award.”
Speaking on the award, Smyth says: “It’s so special to be recognised in such a room. For the young chefs out there, it’s about following your passion and dreams, keep working. It’s hard work to get to the top, keep at it. Go to work with the right people. Go to work with people who inspire you.”
Smyth joins a list of previous recipients of the Craft Guild of Chefs Special Award including Asma Khan, Simon Rogan, Angela Hartnett, Michel Roux, Albert Roux, Marco Pierre White, and Raymond Blanc.
Other stand out winners on the night include Adam Smith of Coworth Park for Restaurant Chef Award, Luis Meza of Hilton London Metropole for the Pastry Chef Award, and Kioku by Endo for New Restaurant of the Year Award.