A double consecration honors Florence Porignon, head of the restaurant Chez Flo in Flémalle. She has won the title of Lady Chef of the Year 2026 by BRU, a prestigious distinction in Belgian gastronomy, as well as the Lady Chef Public Prize 2026, reflecting public support for her career. This recognition comes as Chez Flo celebrates its tenth anniversary.
Florence Porignon's passion for cooking dates back to her childhood. After training at the Hotel School of Namur and in Lucerne, Switzerland, she continued her career in renowned establishments. She notably joined the Lausanne Palace, working alongside chef Edgard Bovier, where she became the first woman to lead the kitchens of the establishment's Michelin-starred gastronomic restaurant. Her career also took her to Las Vegas for a year and a half with the celebrated chef Joël Robuchon at L'Atelier. At the age of 30, she returned to Belgium to fulfill her dream of opening her own establishment in Flémalle, in her grandparents' house by the Meuse river.
Initially conceived as a guest table, the venue has gradually evolved into a full-fledged restaurant, supported by a team she leads daily. Florence Porignon's culinary approach is personal, generous, and attentive to products, with a strong emphasis on the pleasure of hosting. During the Culinary Challenge, she impressed the jury with two dishes highlighting veal and English lamb, praised for their technical mastery and the personality of her creations.
This distinction rewards both her expertise and the unique identity she has cultivated in her cuisine over the years. With this double victory, Florence Porignon proudly represents Flémalle in the Belgian gastronomic landscape, showcasing the ability of local talents to stand out while remaining deeply connected to their region.
