Joined Le Gavroche as an apprentice in 1996, working her way up to become the first female chef at the restaurant in its 40-year history.
She moved from apprentice to first commis in 1998, became chef de partie in 2003 and then sous chef in 2004 before her latest promotion.
“Le Gavroche is an institution and I feel privileged to take on the responsibility of head chef at such an iconic establishment. Continuing to learn from Michel Roux Jr while working with such an experienced team, both in the kitchen and front of house, make this an unbelievable opportunity.”
Apparently a very shy, timid girl to start off with, Rachel left Le Gavroche in 2000 to spend three years serving as a chef in the Royal Airforce. This time away apparently gave her the confidence she needed to assume her position in the kitchen on her return in 2003. Under head chef Nicholas Lariden, she was soon promoted to sous chef. Lariden is planning on opening a new restaurant, Le Bouchon Breton in London’s Spitalfield’s in April 2009.
Women Chefs 