Simon Rogan wins top industry honour at National Restaurant Awards

Chef Simon Rogan was honored with the Outstanding Industry Contribution Award at the National Restaurant Awards 2026, held at The Magazine in London’s Docklands on June 8. The accolade celebrates his impact on British dining, particularly his farm-led, hyper-seasonal culinary philosophy. Rogan, owner of the Umbel Hospitality Group, oversees acclaimed venues like L’Enclume in Cumbria, Rogan & Co, and international locations in Hong Kong, Phuket, and Malta. The awards ceremony also highlighted the success of Rogan’s establishments, with L’Enclume ranked 34th and Henrock debuting at 40th in the UK’s Top 100 restaurants. Head chef Mark McCabe at Henrock was shortlisted in the Chef to Watch category. Rogan reflected on his 25-year journey, praising the team behind his restaurants and the demanding yet rewarding nature of the hospitality industry. The National Restaurant Awards, now in their 19th year, recognize excellence across the UK’s dining sector, from Michelin-starred restaurants to gastropubs. The Top 100 list is compiled by 200 industry experts, including chefs and critics, who evaluate restaurants from 11 UK regions. Additional awards cover categories like Chef of the Year and Opening of the Year. Rogan expressed gratitude for his wife’s support and the collective effort of his teams, emphasizing the need to sustain the industry for future generations. His restaurants continue to uphold the values established at Aulis Cartmel, driving innovation in venues across the UK and internationally. The full awards list and details are available at nationalrestaurantawards.co.uk.