London’s gastronomic scene has reached new heights as Hélène Darroze at the Connaught in Mayfair and Core by Clare Smyth in Notting Hill have both been awarded the prestigious three Michelin stars, solidifying their place among the world’s culinary elite.
Chef Hélène Darroze, who oversees acclaimed establishments in Paris and Moscow, is revered for her innovative French cuisine and unwavering dedication to excellence. Her journey began in 1990 under the tutelage of legendary chef Alain Ducasse at the iconic Louis XV restaurant in Monaco, an experience that shaped her exacting standards and creative vision.
Among Darroze’s standout creations is her celebrated "Tandoori Scallops," which features delicately spiced scallops complemented by a velvety carrot purée and aromatic kumquat confit—a dish that masterfully balances complexity and elegance.
Clare Smyth, originally from Northern Ireland, honed her craft alongside culinary icons Alain Ducasse and Gordon Ramsay before launching Core in 2017. In just a few years, Core has emerged as one of the globe’s most sought-after fine dining destinations, renowned for its modern British cuisine and meticulous attention to detail.
Smyth’s signature "Potato & Roe" dish transforms the humble potato into a showstopper: a Charlotte potato is slow-cooked in seaweed-infused butter, then marinated for 24 hours. It is served with Scottish herring and trout roe, finished with an indulgent butter sauce and garnished with crisp salt & vinegar chips for an elevated twist.
London now proudly boasts five three Michelin-starred restaurants: Hélène Darroze at the Connaught, Core by Clare Smyth, Lecture Room & Library at Sketch (helmed by Pierre Gagnaire), Restaurant Gordon Ramsay (with Gordon Ramsay and Matt Abé), and Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester (led by Jean-Philippe Blondet). Each establishment represents the pinnacle of culinary artistry, offering immersive dining experiences that attract gourmands from across the globe.
