Sian Wyn Owen
Executive Head Chef of The River Cafe“Running a World-Famous Restaurant with a Menu That Changes Twice a Day”
Sian Wyn Owen is the Executive Head Chef of The River Cafe, one of London’s most iconic Michelin-starred Italian restaurants. Since joining the team in 1999 and becoming Head Chef in 2005, Sian has been a pivotal figure in the restaurant’s success and instrumental in both preserving and elevating its reputation for world-class Italian cuisine. Born in Cowbridge, Wales, Sian’s passion for cooking was shaped by her upbringing and international culinary influences. After earning a BSC in Human Nutrition and Dietetics from King’s College London, Sian then went on to train in some of London’s most prestigious kitchens and aided in the opening of Bluebird (London – King’s Road) and Sartoria (London – Savile Row). During her time at The River Cafe, Sian has co-written several River Cafe titles, including the critically acclaimed River Cafe 30 (2017), for which she received the Fortnum & Mason Food and Drink Award, and The River Cafe Look Book (2022). Sian is a regular guest on Ruth Rogers’ podcast Ruthie’s Table 4, where she offers rare insights into the restaurant’s philosophy and operations.
Outside of the kitchen, Sian is a proud and passionate advocate for sustainability, ethical sourcing, and food education, regularly collaborating with Ty Hafan, Maggie’s Centre, The Felix Project and Hammersmith & Fulham council. As a champion of Welsh produce, Sian sources ingredients that feature on The River Cafe menus such as Rhug Estate Lamb and Canbalva Estate Beef.
At Worldchefs Congress & Expo 2026, join Sian and learn more about The River Cafe in her session, “Running a World-Famous Restaurant with a Menu That Changes Twice a Day.”