Anna Haugh is a celebrated Irish chef, known for her innovative culinary skills, entrepreneurial spirit, and engaging media presence. Over the years, she has built a reputation for herself as a talented and versatile chef, combining modern European cuisine with a strong emphasis on Irish ingredients and traditions. Haugh has not only achieved success in the kitchen but has also made waves in the world of television, further solidifying her place as one of Ireland’s top culinary figures.
Early Life and Background
Anna Haugh was born on November 6, 1980, in Dublin, Ireland. Growing up in the suburb of Tallaght, she was introduced to cooking at a young age by her mother, who was an excellent cook, and her father, who frequently took her to local markets and fishmongers. This early exposure to fresh, high-quality ingredients sparked her passion for food, and she soon began to pursue a career in the culinary arts.
Haugh attended Presentation Secondary School in Terenure before going on to study at TU Dublin’s School of Culinary Arts and Food Technology. There, she honed her skills and began her formal training as a chef. It was during this time that she realized her true calling was in the kitchen, and she set her sights on becoming a top chef in Ireland and beyond.
Anna Haugh Career Beginnings
After completing her studies, Anna Haugh started her professional career in Dublin, working at the Michelin-starred restaurant L’Ecrivain under renowned chef Derry Clarke. This experience served as a crucial stepping stone in her culinary journey, allowing her to develop her technique and deepen her understanding of high-end cuisine.
She continued to build her reputation by working in some of Europe’s most prestigious kitchens. Haugh spent time working in Paris, where she trained under the legendary chef Gualtiero Marchesi, before moving to London. There, she worked with some of the finest chefs, including Philip Howard at The Square and Shane Osborn at Pine.
Myrtle Restaurant: Her Own Culinary Venture
In May 2019, Anna Haugh opened her own restaurant, Myrtle Restaurant, in the heart of Chelsea, London. Myrtle is a modern European restaurant with a strong Irish influence, focusing on using the best Irish ingredients and combining them with contemporary culinary techniques. The restaurant has been widely praised for its innovative approach to Irish cuisine, as well as its warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The restaurant’s success was quickly recognized, with Myrtle receiving 3 AA Rosettes in 2021, a prestigious accolade that highlights its exceptional food quality and dining experience. Haugh’s dedication to creating dishes that showcase the richness of Irish produce while maintaining modern European flair has made Myrtle one of the standout eateries in London.
Media Career and Television Appearances
Anna Haugh’s talents have not been confined to the kitchen. Her media career has helped elevate her status as a leading figure in the food industry. She is a regular television personality and has made appearances on a variety of cooking shows.
In 2021, Haugh filled in as a guest judge on MasterChef: The Professionals, replacing Monica Galetti. Her expertise and charismatic presence made her a natural fit for the role, and her popularity with audiences grew rapidly. She was later confirmed as a permanent judge on the show, joining Gregg Wallace and Marcus Wareing on the panel.
In addition to her work on MasterChef, Anna has appeared on other notable TV programs, including Saturday Kitchen and Morning Live, where she shares her cooking skills and offers viewers insights into her culinary philosophy. She also starred in the 2025 television series Anna Haugh’s Big Irish Food Tour, a 15-part series where she explores the best of Ireland’s food culture, showcasing the country’s rich culinary heritage and vibrant food scene.
Anna Haugh Personal Life and Family
Anna Haugh is not just a celebrated chef and television personality but also a proud mother and partner. She is married to Richard Elwell, who is also a partner in their culinary ventures, including Myrtle Restaurant. The couple has one son, Oisín Ronnie Elwell, born in August 2021. Anna has spoken openly about the challenges of balancing motherhood with running a successful restaurant and maintaining a high-profile career in television.
While Anna’s professional life is very much in the public eye, she prefers to keep her personal life private. Her family, however, plays an integral role in her life, and she often shares how much they inspire and support her in her career.
Anna Haugh Net Worth and Achievements
As of 2025, Anna Haugh’s estimated net worth is between $1 million and $3 million. This is largely due to her successful restaurant, television appearances, and various culinary ventures. Myrtle Restaurant’s success, along with her media work, book deals, and public speaking engagements, has contributed significantly to her financial success.
Over the years, Haugh has received numerous accolades and awards, including the Best International Chef award at the Food & Wine Ireland awards in 2019. Her restaurant has earned widespread praise for its food quality, and she continues to be a leading figure in the world of fine dining.
Anna Haugh Signature Dishes and Recipes
Anna Haugh’s cooking is known for its modern European flair with an Irish twist. She draws inspiration from her Irish heritage, using local, seasonal produce to create innovative dishes. Some of her most popular dishes include soda bread, potato cakes, and chicken fricassee.
She has shared numerous recipes on her television appearances and in her cookbook, including her famous flatbread recipe and honey cake. Her recipes are a perfect blend of classic Irish ingredients with a contemporary approach to presentation and technique.
Books and Cookbooks
In 2024, Anna published her first cookbook, Cooking with Anna, which offers a collection of her favorite recipes from both her restaurant and her personal repertoire. The book has received positive reviews, with many praising her approachable style and dedication to showcasing the best of Irish ingredients.
Conclusion
Anna Haugh is a true inspiration in the world of gastronomy. From her humble beginnings in Dublin to becoming a leading chef in London, she has proven herself to be an innovator, constantly pushing the boundaries of Irish cuisine while staying true to her roots. Whether running her acclaimed restaurant Myrtle, hosting television shows, or sharing her culinary expertise with the world, Anna Haugh continues to be a driving force in the global food industry.
Her journey is a testament to the power of passion, hard work, and staying true to one’s heritage. As she continues to make waves in both the kitchen and the media, there’s no doubt that Anna Haugh’s influence on the culinary world will only continue to grow.