COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AP) -- René Redzepi, founder and celebrity chef at the iconic Danish restaurant Noma that won three Michelin stars and other international accolades for its innovative "New Nordic" cuisine, has stepped down from his post following allegations of abuse and assault at the Copenhagen landmark.

The head chef of the world's most prestigious restaurant has issued a grovelling apology after dozens of former employees accused him of physical, verbal and psychological abuse -- just days before the opening of his highly anticipated $1,500-per-person pop-up in Los Angeles.