The hospitality industry has long been a male-dominated field, but trailblazing women continue to break barriers and redefine excellence. One such woman is Margo Reuten, the only female chef leading a Michelin-starred restaurant in the Netherlands.
Reuten, a celebrated culinary artist, made history in 2017 when she won the Woman of the Year award, an accolade presented annually by Relais & Châteaux in collaboration with Champagne Pommery. The award recognises outstanding female leaders in the hospitality sector, celebrating those who have elevated industry standards and paved the way for future generations.
Her restaurant, Da Vinci, is a tribute to the legendary Renaissance thinker, Leonardo da Vinci, whom she admires for his diverse talents and innovative mindset. This philosophy is reflected in her culinary creations, which feature locally sourced ingredients, including meat from her family farm in Maasbracht, and French-inspired dishes enhanced with edible flowers.
Our profession is rooted in dedication and discipline. It is a beautiful craft where you gain new insights every day. However, maintaining high performance and continuous innovation requires discipline.
Beyond personal success, Reuten is passionate about mentorship and passing on knowledge to the next generation: “You must embrace life and understand people — only then can you keep growing and creating. Passing on this knowledge and passion is an essential part of my work.”
Ten years of honouring women in hospitality
The Woman of the Year award marks its tenth anniversary this year, continuing its tradition of celebrating female leaders in the hospitality industry. Over the past decade, the initiative has recognised visionary women who have transformed the sector, championing progress and inclusivity.
For 2025, the prestigious award was presented to Kaitlin Ross, General Manager of Relais & Châteaux Sonora Resort in Canada. Ross has pioneered new approaches in maritime tourism, challenging industry norms and paving the way for future leaders.
“The Woman of the Year trophy is a powerful source of inspiration. It demonstrates that women can shape and redefine the hospitality industry. Young women entering the field see that their contributions matter and are encouraged to pursue their passions, challenge the status quo, and forge their own paths,” she concluded.
Relais & Châteaux: a legacy of excellence
Founded in 1954, Relais & Châteaux unites 580 exceptional hotels and restaurants worldwide, all independently operated and dedicated to culinary and hospitality excellence.
In the Benelux region, the following hotels and restaurants are part of Relais & Châteaux:
- Belgium: Hotel Heritage, Kasteel van Ordingen, Le Chalet de la Forêt, and Zilte
- Luxembourg: Hotel Le Place d’Armes
- The Netherlands: Château Sint Gerlach, Château Neercanne, Weeshuis Gouda, Het Roode Koper, Central Park Voorburg, Restaurant Da Vinci, and Bij Jef in Texel.
Margo Reuten’s leadership at Da Vinci exemplifies the spirit of excellence that Relais & Châteaux celebrates. As the only female Michelin-starred chef in the Netherlands, she continues to push culinary boundaries, mentor future generations, and inspire women in hospitality.
