Anna Haugh: The Inspiring Journey of the Irish Chef Who Redefined Modern Cuisine

A Powerful Story of Passion, Perseverance, and Culinary Excellence

Western Business November 11, 2025

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Anna Haugh is a renowned Irish chef, restaurateur, and television personality who has carved an extraordinary path in the culinary world. From her humble beginnings in Dublin to becoming one of the most respected names in modern European fine dining, Anna’s journey is a masterclass in dedication and resilience. Known for her warmth, determination, and innovative flair, she has reimagined Irish cuisine for global audiences while staying true to her roots.

Her story is not just about food; it’s about ambition, creativity, and courage. Anna Haugh’s rise to prominence demonstrates how passion, authenticity, and hard work can transform dreams into reality — even in one of the most competitive industries in the world.

Quick Bio

Attribute	Details
Full Name	Anna Haugh
Date of Birth	6 November 1980
Age (2025)	45 Years
Birthplace	Dublin, Ireland
Nationality	Irish
Ethnicity	Irish
Profession	Chef, Restaurateur, Television Presenter
Education	TU Dublin School of Culinary Arts and Food Technology
Restaurant	Myrtle (Chelsea, London)
Partner	Richard Elwell
Children	1 (Oisín Ronnie Elwell)
Net Worth	Estimated $2 Million (2025)

Anna Haugh Early Life & Family

Anna Haugh was born on November 6, 1980, in Dublin, Ireland. Raised in the vibrant suburb of Tallaght, she grew up in a family that valued tradition, love, and hard work. Her childhood was filled with the aroma of home-cooked meals, where she developed an early appreciation for authentic Irish flavours.

Her education began at Presentation Secondary School in Terenure, where she balanced academics with a growing curiosity for cooking. That curiosity soon evolved into a lifelong passion. Determined to master her craft, she joined the TU Dublin School of Culinary Arts and Food Technology, one of Ireland’s most prestigious culinary institutions. This marked the beginning of her remarkable culinary journey.

Beginning of a Brilliant Career

After completing her formal education, Anna started her professional career in Dublin, training under the legendary Irish chef Derry Clarke at L’Ecrivain, one of the city’s most acclaimed fine-dining restaurants. These early years were challenging but transformative, giving her a strong foundation in technique, discipline, and leadership.

Eager to expand her horizons, Anna moved to London, where she honed her skills in several world-class kitchens. She worked with celebrated chefs such as Philip Howard and Shane Osborn, gaining valuable experience in Michelin-starred environments. Her time in London not only sharpened her skills but also defined her culinary identity as a passionate advocate of Irish ingredients and traditions.

The Birth of Myrtle — A Culinary Dream

In May 2019, Anna Haugh opened Myrtle, her flagship restaurant in Chelsea, London. Named after the late Irish culinary pioneer Myrtle Allen, the restaurant pays homage to Irish heritage while presenting dishes in a modern European style. Myrtle quickly became a sensation, celebrated for its creativity, warmth, and authenticity.

Myrtle received three AA Rosettes in 2021, a testament to Anna’s excellence and vision. Her cooking reflects her love for Irish produce — from Kerry beef to Dublin Bay prawns — and her ability to reinvent traditional dishes into elegant, contemporary experiences. Through Myrtle, Anna not only showcased her talent but also gave Irish cuisine a renewed global identity.

Television Career and Public Recognition

Anna Haugh’s television career brought her charm and expertise into millions of homes. She first appeared on BBC’s Ready Steady Cook and later co-presented Royal Recipes with Michael Buerk. Her appearances on television are defined by her down-to-earth personality and relatable communication style, making her a favourite among viewers.

In 2020, she competed and won on Channel 4’s Snackmasters, further cementing her status as a top-tier chef. Her biggest breakthrough came when she joined MasterChef: The Professionals in 2022, replacing Monica Galetti as a judge. In 2025, she was announced as a new judge on MasterChef UK, a role that highlights her influence as one of the leading voices in contemporary cooking.

Business Ventures and Achievements

Anna’s entrepreneurial spirit extends beyond her kitchen. In addition to Myrtle, she opened The Little Sister Wine Bar in 2024, a more relaxed space that complements the fine-dining experience of Myrtle. This expansion reflects her commitment to creating inclusive dining environments that celebrate community, comfort, and flavour.

Her debut cookbook, “Cooking with Anna,” released in 2024, captures her unique culinary philosophy — blending Irish heritage with modern techniques. Through her restaurant, media work, and publications, Anna Haugh continues to inspire both aspiring chefs and home cooks around the world.

Awards and Recognition

Anna’s impact on the culinary scene has been widely recognised. She won the Best International Chef Award at the Food & Wine Ireland Awards in 2019 and received 3 AA Rosettes for Myrtle in 2021. These achievements solidify her place among the elite chefs of her generation.

Her career demonstrates a perfect balance of passion and professionalism. Anna’s ability to stay grounded, even while achieving global success, makes her an inspiring figure for many — proving that with hard work and authenticity, one can reach incredible heights.

Anna Haugh’s Net Worth and Income Sources

As of 2025, Anna Haugh’s estimated net worth is around $2 million. Her income sources include her restaurant ventures, television appearances, and cookbook royalties. She stands as a role model for young entrepreneurs and chefs, illustrating that talent combined with perseverance leads to long-term success.

Personal Life

Anna Haugh lives in London with her partner Richard Elwell and their son Oisín Ronnie Elwell, born in 2021. Despite her busy professional life, she prioritises family and maintains a healthy work-life balance. Her humility and warmth make her a beloved figure both in and outside the kitchen.

Legacy and Influence

Anna Haugh’s legacy lies in her contribution to Irish cuisine and her role as a pioneering female chef. She has shown that Irish food can be elegant, exciting, and globally celebrated. Her career stands as a beacon for aspiring chefs — especially women — proving that leadership and compassion can coexist in high-pressure industries.

Her name now symbolizes innovation, excellence, and authenticity in the culinary world. Whether through Myrtle’s kitchen, her TV appearances, or her writing, Anna Haugh continues to shape modern gastronomy and inspire a new generation of chefs.

Conclusion

Anna Haugh’s journey from Dublin to international stardom is a story of determination, creativity, and heart. As an Irish chef with a global vision, she bridges tradition and modernity in every dish she creates. Her positive energy, coupled with her honest approach to food, makes her a true ambassador for Irish culinary artistry.

She reminds us that success doesn’t come without challenges — but with perseverance and passion, one can transform those challenges into opportunities. Anna Haugh’s life and career prove that the love of food can indeed change lives, inspire cultures, and unite people across the world.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who is Anna Haugh?

Anna Haugh is an Irish chef, restaurateur, and television presenter known for her London restaurant Myrtle and her role as a judge on BBC’s MasterChef.