New Michelin-starred chef at The Connaught

Michelin-starred French chef Hélène Darroze has been appointed to take over the kitchen at The Connaught following its £70 million renovation.

The new chef, who currently holds two Michelin stars at her restaurant 'Hélène Darroze' in Paris, will launch a signature restaurant at the five-star hotel.

In addition to this restaurant, Hélène will oversee all culinary aspects of the hotel including The Gallery, an informal dining venue overlooking Carlos Place, and a private and in-room dining. She will also be responsible for the Connaught Grill which will be returning in the Autumn.

Commenting on her appointment, Hélène said: "Expansion was not particularly on my agenda, but I visited The Connaught, and fell in love with the hotel both in terms of its history and its philosophy of offering the finest of everything. It felt like a perfect fit."

Stephen Alden, chief executive officer of Maybourne Hotel Group, owners and managers of The Connaught, explained: "Hélène is a perfect match for the Connaught where the French Gourmet heritage has always been a part of the hotel's exceptional legacy."

Hélène will split her time between two restaurants, initially focussing heavily on the London operation. She will also be bringing a team of staff from her Paris kitchen to lead the brigade in the capital.