Cateys 2026: Chef Award – John Williams, the Ritz London

John Williams has held the position of executive chef at the Ritz London since 2004. A veteran with more than 50 years’ experience in the hospitality industry, he is widely regarded as one of the UK’s most influential culinary figures.

Williams is celebrated for his dedication to nurturing young talent. In May 2024, he was named president of the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts (RACA), where he tirelessly promotes the education and training of future chefs through apprenticeships and the Annual Awards of Excellence.

His culinary philosophy centres on evolution, not revolution. He has successfully transformed the Ritz London into a modern destination restaurant, while strictly maintaining its classic French identity and reverence for the traditions of Auguste Escoffier.

He advocates for a unified team approach, where front and back of house are one, and believes the “magic moments” of dining come from the seamless gel of great food and great service, rather than just kitchen creativity.

He is uniquely trusted by the British Royal Family, having catered for Queen Elizabeth II’s 70th and 80th birthdays. Under his tenure, the Ritz London became the first hotel to receive a Royal Warrant for Banqueting and Catering Services from King Charles III.

The Ritz London achieved its first-ever Michelin star in 2017 and reached a major milestone with two Michelin stars in 2025. Williams described the enormous achievement as a “moment he had waited 50 years for”. That same year, the Ritz London was named the Best Restaurant in the UK at the National Restaurant Awards.

In December 2025, he was honoured with the Classic Excellence Award by La Liste, which also ranked the Ritz London as the fourth best restaurant in the world for 2026.

His contribution to the wider industry is unparalleled. Williams has just completed his first full year as president of RACA, overseeing the 2025 Annual Awards of Excellence and planning the 2026 Master of Culinary Arts. His presidency follows 20 years as chairman of RACA.

He is also one of the most prominent advocates for the hospitality industry, focusing his influence on education, mentorship and charitable support for the next generation of chefs. He is a tireless champion for vocational training and apprenticeships, often stating that it takes 15 years to truly master the fundamentals of the profession.

A master of his craft whose leadership is admired globally, Williams is a worthy winner of the 2026 Chef Award.

What the judges said

“John Williams is a pure statesman of our industry. He has taken the classics and depth of tradition to new heights of relevance and excitement. A very worthy winner.” Tom Kerridge

“An icon of the industry who leads by example and has trained a whole generation of chefs. His legacy will live long into the future.” Angela Hartnett

“A standout winner. Impeccable career, outstanding chef, industry titan who has made an incredible contribution to the industry.” Phil Howard

The shortlist

• Tommy Banks, the Black Swan and Jeopardy Hospitality
• Nieves Barragán Mohacho, Sabor and Legado
• Adam Byatt, Trinity
• Spencer Metzger, Row on 5
• John Williams, the Ritz London

The judges

• Amanda Afiya, Amanda Afiya (Hospitality)
• Jason Atherton, the Social Company
• Angela Hartnett, Murano
• Phil Howard, Elystan Street
• Mark Birchall, Moor Hall
• Tom Kerridge, Hand & Flowers