In pictures: TV chef and food writer invites RSVP into Ballymaloe House this month to chat all about her career, home life and what keeps working at Ballymaloe interesting
Rachel Allen has been passionate about food ever since she was a young girl and wiled the days away baking with her mum Hallfríður and sister Simone at home in Dublin. She studied at the famous Ballymaloe Cookery School, where she met her husband Isaac, and has worked there since the ‘90s. 20 years ago her television career took off, catapulting her to fame in Ireland, the UK, the US and beyond.
Cooking and baking has always played an important role in Rachel’s life but, when it came to her career, she originally wanted to be a fashion designer.
However, after some careful consideration she decided to pursue her childhood passion and as a result is now one of Ireland’s most celebrated chefs and food writers.
Read more: Rachel Allen lifts lid on childhood with sister who is also a talented cook
Read more: Rachel Allen worries more about her sons as they get older but is proud of their careers
Rachel describes her work life as “hectic” but says she is definitely not a workaholic and loves to spend time with family in Cork, where she has lived for many years. Her and Isaac’s three creative children are their pride and joy, and she loves seeing them live out their dreams. Eldest son Joshua runs a stone carving business and trains in MMA, while middle child Lucca is based in England thanks to his thriving motorsport career.
Youngest daughter Scarlett, meanwhile, is showing promise as a talented cook and Rachel would be “delighted” to welcome her into the family business one day. But, “you have to balance the pride with the nerves”, as the mum-of-three admits she will always worry about her children, even as they get older.
In this month's issue of RSVP Magazine, Rachel invites us into Ballymaloe House to chat work, family and more. See all of the photos from our exclusive photoshoot below...
English (US) ·