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South African-born chef Chantel Dartnall has been appointed Chevalier de l'Ordre national du Mérite (Knight of the National Order of Merit) by decree of the President of the French Republic, one of France's highest civilian honours.

Established in 1963 by President Charles de Gaulle, the Ordre national du Mérite is France's second-highest national order of civil merit. It recognises individuals who have demonstrated distinguished service and made exceptional contributions in their respective fields.

Widely celebrated for pioneering her signature botanical cuisine during her tenure at Restaurant Mosaic at The Orient in South Africa, Dartnall has earned international acclaim for her innovative approach to fine dining. Today, she continues her culinary journey in Brittany, France, where she leads Restaurant Mosaic and Château des Tesnières.

Reflecting on the honour, Dartnall said she was "deeply honoured" to receive the distinction.

"As a South African who has always looked to France with admiration for its extraordinary culture, gastronomy and *art de vivre*, receiving this distinction is an immense privilege. It is a moment I could never have imagined when my culinary journey first began."

She emphasised that the recognition extends far beyond her own achievements.

"This honour is about so much more than one person. It belongs to my family, whose love and encouragement have shaped every step of my path, to our remarkable team at Restaurant Mosaic and Château des Tesnières, to the talented artisans and producers who inspire us every day, and to our guests and friends who have believed in our dream."

Dartnall described her move from South Africa to Brittany as one of the greatest adventures of her life.

"To be welcomed so warmly by France, a country that has inspired my vision of gastronomy for so many years, is a gift for which I will always be grateful."

At Château des Tesnières, she has sought to create a destination where art, nature, hospitality and gastronomy come together, while celebrating the meeting of cultures around the table.

"I hope to continue sharing this passion and to honour the values that this distinction represents," she said.

Concluding her message, Dartnall expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported her journey, acknowledging the family, colleagues, artisans, producers and guests who have helped shape her remarkable career.

The appointment marks another significant milestone for one of South Africa's most internationally recognised chefs and further strengthens the cultural and culinary ties between South Africa and France.