Michel Roux (13 April 1933 – 11 March 2020) was a French-born British chef, restaurateur, and television personality. He, along with his brother Albert Roux, is credited with introducing classic French cuisine to the United Kingdom and establishing the country’s first Michelin-starred restaurant, Le Gavroche, in London’s Mayfair in 1967.
Early life and training
Born in Charolles, France, Roux apprenticed under renowned chefs, including Fernand Point in Vienne and the legendary Troisgros family in Roanne. He later worked at prestigious establishments such as the Hôtel de Paris in Monte Carlo and the Royal Monceau in Paris.
Career in the United Kingdom
In 1967, Roux and Albert opened Le Gavroche, which quickly earned a Michelin star, making it the first UK restaurant to do so. The brothers later founded the restaurant group the Roux Group, which expanded to include multiple acclaimed venues, notably the two-Michelin-starred restaurant Le Café Royal and the modern French restaurant The River Restaurant.
Michel Roux was instrumental in training a generation of British chefs, many of whom have become prominent figures in the culinary world. Notable protégés include Gordon Ramsay, Marco Pierre White, and Raymond Blanc.
Television and public presence
Roux appeared as a judge on the BBC cooking competition series The Great British Bake Off (originally titled The Great British Baking Show) from 2010 to 2016. He also featured in documentaries and cooking programmes, contributing to the popularisation of haute cuisine in Britain.
Honours and legacy
- Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE), awarded in the 2002 New Year Honours for services to the hospitality industry.
- Knight of the Legion of Honour (France), awarded in 2014.
Michel Roux’s influence extended beyond his restaurants; his emphasis on classic French techniques and mentorship shaped contemporary British gastronomy. He passed away in Bray, Berkshire, at the age of 86.
