Speaker Spotlight: Anna Haugh
Modern Irish Cooking on a Global Stage
Few chefs have done more to champion Irish produce on the international stage than Anna Haugh.
At Hospitality Expo 2026, Anna brings her culinary expertise, media insight and deep connection to Irish food to the live Chef Demo Stage, showcasing how Irish ingredients can shine in modern, globally relevant cooking.
About Anna Haugh
Chef and broadcaster Anna Haugh is the chef patron of Myrtle Restaurant and The Wee Sister Wine Bar in Chelsea, London — both celebrated for their modern approach to Irish cuisine and unwavering focus on Irish produce.
Anna began her professional cooking career at Cathal Brugha Street, Dublin, before completing her apprenticeship at the Michelin-starred L’Ecrivain.
She went on to work in Paris with Gualtiero Marchesi, one of the most influential figures in modern European gastronomy.
After moving to London, Anna worked at Pied à Terre under Shane Osborne and The Square under Philip Howard, before becoming Director of Food and Head Chef at Rocket Food.
She later took on the role of Head Chef at London House for Gordon Ramsay, further cementing her reputation as a chef of international standing.
In 2019, Anna opened Myrtle, with a clear ambition: to introduce London diners to a sophisticated taste of Ireland, placing Irish farmers, producers and ingredients at the heart of every menu.
Her debut cookbook, Cooking with Anna: Modern Home Cooking with Irish Heart, was released in May 2024 and reflects her philosophy of contemporary cooking grounded in Irish heritage.
Broadcasting & Industry Influence
Alongside her restaurant work, Anna has become one of the most recognisable chef voices on British television.
Her broadcasting career includes:
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Three series of Royal Recipes (BBC)
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Ready Steady Cook (BBC)
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Resident chef on Morning Live
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Regular appearances on Saturday Kitchen and Sunday Brunch
In late 2022, Anna was announced as a judge on MasterChef: The Professionals.
In 2025, she filmed her debut BBC series Anna Haugh’s Big Irish Food Tour and was also announced as one of the new MasterChef judges, joining Grace Dent.
This combination of culinary credibility and media influence makes Anna a powerful advocate for Irish food at home and abroad.
Anna Haugh at Hospitality Expo 2026
Anna will appear live on the Chef Demo Stage, sharing her experience of translating Irish ingredients into modern, commercially successful menus.
🔹 Live Chef Demo
Tuesday 10 February | 12:00
Chef Demo Stage
Anna Haugh, Myrtle Restaurant (London)
Hosted by Aisling Larkin
In this live demonstration, Anna will explore how Irish produce can be used creatively and confidently in contemporary hospitality settings.
Her session offers inspiration for chefs and operators looking to balance heritage, innovation and commercial appeal, while keeping Irish ingredients at the centre of the plate.
📍 See Anna Haugh at Hospitality Expo 2026
RDS Dublin | 10–11 February 2026
Free to attend for hospitality professionals.