John Williams, head chef at The Ritz Restaurant in London, has been named the UK's best chef at the 2026 Catey Awards, hosted by Caterer magazine. The ceremony took place at JW Marriott Grosvenor House on Tuesday night.
Williams' Decade-Long Tenure at The Ritz
Williams has led the kitchen at The Ritz Restaurant since 2004. Under his guidance, the restaurant earned its first Michelin star in 2017 and a second star in 2025. The venue is known for its luxurious dining experience and French-influenced cuisine.
A recent review praised the restaurant's 'delightfully curious' food and 'tasting menus bristling with the best British ingredients, cooked with French precision and flair.' The Ritz also features on lists of London's most romantic restaurants.
Other London Winners at the Catey Awards
David Moore, founder of Pied à Terre in Fitzrovia, received the Lifetime Achievement award. Pied à Terre opened in 1991 and is London's longest-standing Michelin-starred restaurant, holding a star for over 30 years.
The inaugural Pastry Chef of the Year Award went to Ross Sneddon, executive pastry chef at Brown's Hotel in Mayfair and the Balmoral in Edinburgh. The awards are voted on by an industry panel.
London's Culinary Scene Continues to Shine
The Catey Awards highlight London's status as a global dining destination. With multiple Michelin-starred venues and innovative chefs, the city remains a hub for gastronomic excellence. John Williams' recognition underscores the enduring appeal of classic French techniques blended with British ingredients.
