Ruthie Rogers: Cooking Up Connection

0:00On March 22nd, Ruthie Rogers runs the River Cafe, a top Italian spot in London that's held onto its Michelin star since the late 1990s. She's the co-founder, owner, and driving force behind this lively restaurant known for simple, fresh food, and endless chatter. Her new book comes straight from a podcast she started during the pandemic to keep people connected through meals. The place got its start over 40 years ago as a basic lunch spot for her architect husband's new office. She was teamed up with her friend Rose Gray, even though neither had professional kitchen experience, just home cooking know-how. From six tables, it grew into a celebrity magnet with a wood fired oven and dishes like their famous lemon tart. Chefs and staff rave about Rogers' style, built on hope instead of fear, which shaped the whole team. Early on, she hired a young Jamie Oliver, whose big break came from a documentary film there launching him as the naked chef. He still credits her and Gray for inspiring his daily cooking approach.

1:03Long-time managers have stuck around for over 30 years, passing on that welcoming energy to guests. The podcast captured chats with stars like Wyclef Jean and Gary Linnaker, turning into book excerpts full of those warm exchanges. Rogers sees restaurants like hers as the harbiet of a great city, blending top-notch food with real human connection that keeps everyone coming. Back. Our update from entertainment and celebrity news today, powered by AI, I'm Corey with the story.