Why is René Redzepi closing Noma?

René Redzepi is closing Noma after 20 years following recent allegations of past abuse by former employees in his kitchens.

What allegations have been made against René Redzepi?

Former employees have accused Redzepi of physical punishments inflicted on cooks between 2009 and 2017.

What impact will Noma's closure have on the restaurant industry?

Noma's closure is fueling urgent conversations in the global restaurant industry about fixing professional kitchens and addressing persistent issues of bullying and abuse.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Noma's Reign Ends: Chef Admits Past Kitchen Abuses

Noma's Reign Ends: Chef Admits Past Kitchen Abuses

14 Mar

•

Summary

Chef René Redzepi announced Noma's closure after 20 years.
Allegations of past abuse by Redzepi surfaced recently.
The closure sparks industry-wide talks on kitchen culture.

Noma's Reign Ends: Chef Admits Past Kitchen Abuses

René Redzepi, the acclaimed chef behind the influential Copenhagen restaurant Noma, has announced the closure of his establishment after 20 years. The news came on Wednesday morning, as Redzepi tearfully informed his staff of the decision. This announcement follows recent public accusations from former employees detailing experiences of abuse within Noma's kitchens.

The allegations, which surfaced online over the past month, include claims of physical punishments inflicted on cooks between 2009 and 2017. Redzepi's dramatic announcement, captured on video, leaves lingering questions about his future involvement and the survival of the Noma brand, especially after corporate sponsors withdrew their support.