2025 Global Ambassador for Women in Food & Drink

Celebrating Excellence: Melanie Brown named 2025 Global Ambassador for Women in Food & Drink

The 2025 Women in Food & Drink (WIFD) Awards have recognised trailblazing women who are shaping the future of the food and beverage industry. This year’s honourees include high-profile executives, start-up founders, and creative visionaries, each acknowledged for their contributions to sustainability, business growth, management, and the evolution of New Zealand’s rich food culture.

Among those celebrated is Melanie Brown, chef, restaurateur, sommelier, and our owner, founder and chef restaurateur of The Laundry in Brixton. Mel has been crowned Cuisine Magazine’s Female Global Ambassador for Women in Food & Drink 2025, a title recognising her exceptional influence in championing New Zealand’s food and wine story on the global stage.

Mel flew back to Auckland to receive the honour in person, a fitting moment for someone whose career has been defined by bold moves and groundbreaking achievements. From her early days training as a pastry chef at Raymond Blanc’s Le Petit Blanc to working alongside Peter Gordon at The Providores and Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen, Mel has spent years honing her craft and shaping the hospitality industry with her unique perspective.

Her impact extends beyond the kitchen—Mel founded The New Zealand Wine Cellar in Pop Brixton, later expanding to Specialist Cellars, a business dedicated to putting New Zealand wines in glasses around the world. Now, at the helm of The Laundry Brixton, she continues to push boundaries, combining classical cooking with New World flair, all while curating an exceptional wine offering that proudly showcases the best of Aotearoa and influences from along her journey.

“Being recognised as a Global Ambassador for Women in Food & Drink is not just about celebrating my journey, but about championing the fierce, talented women redefining our industry every day. It’s about hustle, passion, and proving that breaking boundaries is what we do best.” – Mel Brown

Mel’s passion for the industry and her relentless drive to elevate women in hospitality make her a fitting recipient of this accolade. She has consistently used her platform to mentor, support, and uplift others, ensuring that the next generation of female chefs, sommeliers, and restaurateurs have the opportunities and recognition they deserve.

Her philosophy of bold flavours, thoughtful hospitality, and a deep respect for provenance is what makes The Laundry a South London favourite. Whether it’s a perfectly executed brunch, an expertly paired glass of New Zealand wine, or the buzzing atmosphere from personally curated event via Laundry Bespoke; Mel’s signature style is woven into every aspect.

This May, we’re cooking up something BIG. A top-secret collaboration is on the horizon, bringing The Laundry together with the legendary Browning Bros in Essex. Think fire, flavour, and an unforgettable dining experience where Mel’s passion for food, nature, and next-level hospitality takes center stage. Stay tuned—this is one you won’t want to miss…

Stay tuned for more on Mel’s journey, The Laundry’s latest events, and what’s next for our Global Ambassador.

Learn more about Mel’s journey and the 2025 WIFD Awards here.

A huge shout out to the charismatic and widely recognised Editor in Chief, Kelli Brett as well as the team at Air New Zealand UK for making all this possible.