Monica Galetti is one of the best-known and highly renowned female chefs in London. Born in Samoa Monica developed an early interest in food – in 1999 she moved to London where she went on to work for Michel Roux Jr. at two Michelin-starred Le Gavroche. After a total of twelve years at Le Gavroche, Monica left in 2015 to spend time with her family and focus on finding a site for her first restaurant here in London. The result of which was Mere which opened in 2017 in Fitzrovia.
Over the past 13 years Monica has become a familiar television personality, as the inimitable presenter and judge on BBC TWO’s MasterChef: The Professionals. Monica has also gone on to co-present four series of BBC TWO’s Amazing Hotels with Giles Coren.
- Tell us a little bit about your business…
Mere, which pays homage to the name of Monica’s own mother, is a melting pot of cultural influences. It combines the classical French spirit of her husband David’s childhood with the South Pacific and New Zealand flavours from her own upbringing, with elements inspired by her travels around the world and the changing British seasons weaved in to each dish.
- How did you get into the industry?
I started my cooking diploma at 18 and I never looked back since. Grew up always cooking at home with family.
- What are the biggest opportunities and challenges in your industry?
Opportunity to learn and discover from other cultures. The ability to travel and work at the same time. Challenges in the early days were of course the long unsociable hours but the team you work with end up being the ones you socialise with.
- How would you describe your leadership style?
I am firm but fair.
- How do you get the most out of the people who work for you?
Recognising their strengths and weaknesses is important. It is essential my team not just work hard but they enjoy what they do.
- What are the most crucial elements to your business running smoothly and being successful?
Staff welfare. I couldn’t run the business with strong team.
- How has the past 12 months been for you?
It’s been ups and downs. Wonderful to be back running open without any restrictions due to pandemic. Brilliant to see customers exited to dine out again, however raising costs has been a challenge as well recruiting for new team members.
- What will the next 12 months look like for your business?
Hoping we remain busy and continue to offer the great service and food Mere is known for.
- What are the highlights of your career so far?
I have spent 12 years in two Michelin star kitchen. Opening Mere with my husband David. And I have enjoyed being a judge on MasterChef for 14 years.
- What’s the biggest business mistake that you’ve learnt from?
Touch wood there have not been any major business mistakes so far.
- What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve been given?
Be realistic with your margins.
