Meet the Chef: Michelin-starred Hélène Darroze

1. As one of the most renowned chefs in the world, how has your upbringing in southwest France influenced your culinary style and the dishes you create at The Connaught?

HD: I come from a long line of cooks, spanning four generations, including my father, grandparents, great-grandparents, and even my great-great-grandmother on my mother's side, all of whom were chefs. Cooking runs in my blood, and my mother often jokes that I had a discerning palate even before I could walk. My culinary journey began at a very young age, starting with cakes, much like many children.

My family's culinary legacy and upbringing have profoundly shaped my approach to cooking. The core of our philosophy has always been to bring happiness to our guests by using the finest ingredients available. I've strived to create an atmosphere in my restaurant that makes guests feel as if they're entering my own home. While these principles remain unchanged, my journey has seen me develop more rigour, maturity, and expertise over the years, alongside a dedicated team that shares my vision. The more we align in our thinking, the more our creativity flourishes.

2. The Connaught is celebrated for its timeless elegance and sophistication. How do you ensure that your culinary creations align with the hotel's luxurious ambiance and complement the overall dining experience?

HD: The enchantment of The Connaught, within the exquisite space designed by Pierre Yovanovitch and graced by views of Carlos Place and the Tadao Ando water feature, is deeply personal to me. I've poured my life into this experience, even cherishing the intimate moment of becoming a mother in Vietnam. It exudes authenticity and honesty, with meticulous attention to every detail from arrival to departure.

My exceptional team is an integral part of this enchantment. Comprising dedicated and loyal members, they wholeheartedly embrace my culinary vision, acting as the conduits of my essence. My unwavering focus and motivation lie in bestowing joy upon our guests. It's my desire for each visitor to feel as though they are dining in my own home. Every element, from the cuisine to the design, art de la table, and service, is thoughtfully considered, culminating in a meticulously crafted experience. Our dedication extends even to the sequencing of the meal, ensuring an unforgettable journey for our guests.

3. With multiple Michelin stars and accolades under your belt, what continues to inspire you and drive your passion for cooking and creating innovative dishes?

HD: My daily motivation stems from the desire to bring joy to our guests. People visit our restaurant seeking a beautiful and joyful experience, and it is our duty to deliver on that promise. This commitment fuels my drive to continually challenge and improve myself.

Additionally, my travels provide a wellspring of inspiration. Destinations like Japan, Vietnam, Thailand, and India continue to ignite my passion with their diverse ingredients, flavours, and culinary traditions. Italy's abundant generosity and rich ingredients have left a significant imprint on my cuisine. I've also gleaned valuable insights from Spain, particularly its northern region, where the celebration of life through food resonates deeply.

However, my most profound source of inspiration is found in Les Landes and the Basque country, where I was raised. This region forms the bedrock of my culinary identity, surrounded by incredible ingredients that have always fuelled my unwavering commitment to sharing happiness through food.

4. Your restaurants have a strong emphasis on locally sourced and sustainable ingredients. How do you strike a balance between showcasing these regional flavours and incorporating your personal touch into each dish?

HD: My restaurants are firmly rooted in authenticity, and my unwavering quest revolves around sourcing the finest ingredients. While I prioritise produce from my native Southwestern France, I also emphasise local sourcing. Supporting local producers isn't merely a matter of convenience; it's a reflection of my deep appreciation for the dedication and ethos behind each ingredient.

Every product holds a place of legitimacy on my table. When crafting a dish or a menu, I invariably commence with the seasonal and locally sourced ingredient. I firmly believe that chefs carry a significant responsibility regarding sustainability and should set an exemplary standard. Once I have the ingredient in hand, I infuse it with my sensibility and emotion, guided by an unwavering commitment to respecting taste and evoking emotion in our guests.

Helene currently has four restaurants, 3 in France: Hélène Darroze à Villa La Coste in Provence (1 star), Marsan Par Hélène Darroze (2 stars) and JÒIA par Hélène Darroze (both Paris), and 1 in London: Hélène Darroze at The Connaught (3 stars).

5. The culinary world is constantly evolving, and diners' preferences are ever-changing. How do you keep up with the latest food trends while staying true to your culinary identity and maintaining timeless appeal?

HD: Each day, my unwavering focus and motivation revolve around bringing joy to our guests. People visit our restaurants seeking a beautiful, happiness-inducing experience, and it is our duty to fulfil that promise. I've never been one to follow trends; instead, I've consistently offered experiences that reflect my beliefs and passions. It's my responsibility, and indeed my passion, to create, experiment, and strike the perfect flavour balance in every dish. My aim is to craft dishes that bring happiness to our guests. I always cook what I love because I simply cannot invest my heart in something I don't. If that enjoyment were to vanish from my life, I'd pivot and explore other avenues.

6. The pandemic posed significant challenges to the hospitality industry. How did you and your team at The Connaught adapt during these times, and what lessons did you learn that will shape the future of luxury dining?

HD: Undoubtedly, this has been a challenging period for my industry. The past year brought numerous obstacles, and my heart goes out to colleagues who faced business losses. From the very beginning, I made a deliberate choice to stay positive, for succumbing to negativity would be maddening. During the closure of restaurants, I used the time to delve into intricate details, with a strong emphasis on supporting local suppliers and placing sustainability at the forefront.

I hold a deep optimism regarding the future of fine dining. The realm of fine dining carries a profound responsibility to lead by example for a brighter future. Demonstrating the significance of respecting nature and prioritising sustainability is crucial for the well-being of our children. Embracing seasonal, locally sourced ingredients is a step toward that better future.

Hélène Darroze's culinary journey is a testament to the rich traditions and inspirations that have shaped her distinctive approach to fine dining. Her commitment to authenticity, the use of the finest ingredients, and the pursuit of happiness for her guests have been at the core of her success.

To experience the culinary magic of Hélène Darroze, we wholeheartedly recommend a visit to Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, a three-star Michelin destination in London. It's a dining experience that embodies the essence of fine dining and a celebration of culinary artistry.