Noma, the internationally renowned Copenhagen restaurant founded by chef René Redzepi, is set to reopen on August 5 after closing at the end of 2024. The relaunch comes following a period of significant upheaval triggered by allegations of physical and psychological abuse made against Redzepi.

The restaurant initially closed last year but continued operating as a pop-up in Los Angeles from March through June 26. Earlier this year, a report based on interviews with more than 35 former employees detailed misconduct by Redzepi spanning 2009 to 2017. According to these accounts, Redzepi subjected staff to physical violence—including hitting, jabbing, and shoving—as well as verbal threats involving blacklisting, deportation, and public humiliation. These allegations portrayed behavior that surpassed the commonly criticized toxic culture endemic to many professional kitchens.

In response to the reports, Redzepi stepped down from his leadership role. The Los Angeles pop-up lost sponsorships from several corporate partners, including American Express and Blackbird, and faced protests during its initial weeks.

Announcing the reopening via an Instagram post, Redzepi outlined the new leadership structure. He will serve as creative director, focusing on long-term initiatives such as technological innovation and sustainability projects involving insects, seaweed, legumes, and fungi. Mette Brink Søberg has been appointed head of research and development, Pablo Soto will act as executive head chef, and Annika de Las Heras takes on the role of chief executive.

In a formal statement accompanying the reopening, Noma acknowledged the challenges faced over recent months and emphasized a period of reflection on the company’s identity and future direction. The restaurant will return to its existing location at Refshalevej 96 in Copenhagen, offering a monthly rotating seasonal menu priced at 4,500 Danish kroner (approximately $700). The menu will be inspired by current ingredients, landscapes, and ideas, underscoring Noma’s commitment to continuous exploration and improvement.

Established in 2003, Noma has been influential in elevating Copenhagen to a global culinary destination and establishing Redzepi as a prominent figure in the international restaurant industry. The planned reopening represents a pivotal step as the institution seeks to redefine itself amid past controversies and move forward under a revised leadership structure.