The head chef of Noma has resigned after former employees accused him of abuse in the workplace.
Celebrity chef René Redzepi announced his decision on social media. He said it was time for new leadership after more than two decades at the restaurant.
Redzepi wrote that the team at Noma is stronger than ever and ready to guide the restaurant into its next phase.
Allegations of Toxic Work Culture
The resignation follows reports that several former staff members accused Redzepi of creating a toxic environment in the kitchen.
According to a report by The New York Times, dozens of former employees claimed they experienced verbal threats and physical mistreatment while working at the restaurant.
Some workers said the pressure and treatment inside the kitchen created an abusive workplace culture.
Former Staff Speak Out
One former employee, Jason Ignacio White, said he witnessed repeated incidents of mistreatment during his time at the restaurant.
He explained that speaking publicly felt necessary to support colleagues who experienced similar situations.
White said remaining silent would have been worse than raising concerns about workplace abuse.
Redzepi Responds to Claims
Redzepi later addressed the allegations online. He apologised to anyone who suffered under his leadership.
The chef admitted he had shouted at staff and pushed people during moments of anger.
He said those actions were unacceptable and shared that he had sought therapy to better control his behaviour.
Protests and Sponsor Withdrawals
The controversy intensified during Noma’s planned pop-up residency in Los Angeles.
Protesters gathered outside the pop-up restaurant in the Silver Lake area.
Activists from the group One Fair Wage demanded Redzepi’s resignation.
Advocate Saru Jayaraman questioned whether diners would want food prepared in an abusive workplace.
Several sponsors also pulled their support from the event. These included American Express.
Restaurant Plans Continue
Despite the controversy, the restaurant’s 16-week Los Angeles dining series will continue.
Reservations for the event cost about $1,500 per person and sold out within minutes.
Redzepi also stepped down from the board of MAD, which he founded in 2011 to support workers entering the hospitality industry.
The Noma team will continue operations while the restaurant prepares for its next chapter.
