René Redzepi, the head chef and co-founder of Noma, has resigned from his internationally acclaimed Copenhagen restaurant following allegations that he physically abused his staff. The resignation comes after the New York Times detailed claims that he punched employees in the face, jabbed them with kitchen implements, and slammed them against walls, as well as subjected them to psychological abuse.
In an Instagram story, Redzepi wrote: 'I've decided to step away and allow our extraordinary leaders to now guide the restaurant into its next chapter.' He acknowledged that recent weeks had brought attention to his past leadership and said he recognised that changes at Noma do not repair the past, adding that 'an apology is not enough'.
The chef also resigned from the board of Mad, a food industry non-profit he founded. American Express and hospitality company Blackbird cut ties with Noma ahead of its LA pop-up residency, which is charging $1,500 a ticket and sold out in three minutes. Blackbird offered refunds to its guests.
Redzepi posted a video of himself apologising to staff and announcing his departure. The New York Times report, based on interviews with 35 former employees, described a pattern of physical punishment and lasting trauma from psychological abuse, including intimidation, body shaming, and public ridicule. Redzepi previously issued a statement saying he did not recognise all details but understood his actions were harmful.
Noma has been repeatedly ranked No 1 on the World's 50 Best Restaurants and holds three Michelin stars, but has been controversial for its use of unpaid interns. The restaurant closed for regular service at the end of 2024, opting for pop-up residencies. Redzepi's behaviour in the kitchen was previously highlighted in a 2008 documentary.
