Remembering Skye Gyngell: pioneering Australian chef and cherished friend of FANZA

FANZA is greatly saddened by the death of Skye Gyngell, the influential Australian chef whose innovative approach to food helped reshape the way Britain cooks and eats. She died in London on 22 November, surrounded by family and loved ones, aged 62.

Widely celebrated as the first Australian chef to earn a Michelin star, Gyngell was instrumental in championing seasonal, locally sourced, and sustainably grown produce long before it became part of the mainstream culinary conversation. Her work at the Petersham Nurseries Café in Richmond transformed an under-the-radar garden centre café into one of London’s most admired dining destinations - a place where her philosophy of simplicity, freshness and connection to the land thrived.

Her influence continued with the opening of Spring at Somerset House and her acclaimed work at Heckfield Place in Hampshire, where her restaurants Marle and Hearth continued her commitment to ethical, land-led cooking. Marle earned and retained a Green Michelin Star, recognising its environmental ethos.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Gyngell was also a valued friend to FANZA. In 2014, she hosted a memorable FANZA literary lunch at Spring for the UK launch of human rights barrister Geoffrey Robertson’s autobiography - a testament to her generosity and her enduring support for Australian creatives building their lives and careers in the UK.

Tributes from across the culinary world reflect her profound impact. Fellow chefs and writers - including Jamie Oliver, Nigella Lawson, Kylie Kwong and Jeremy Lee - have praised her vision, warmth and the legacy she leaves behind.

Born in Sydney, Gyngell trained in Paris before rising to prominence in London. Throughout her career, she remained a passionate advocate for thoughtful cooking grounded in respect for land, growers and ingredients. Her influence will continue to shape kitchens and imaginations for many years to come.

FANZA extends our sincere condolences to Skye’s family, friends, colleagues, and all those who were inspired by her life and work.

(image credit: David Charbitt)