Daniel Boulud is one of the most famous chefs of our generation, having built an empire of successful restaurants with outlets in the United States (where he is currently based), Canada, Dubai and Singapore. His decades-long career saw him write a number of cookbooks, win multiple James Beard Awards, win coveted Michelin stars and Top 50 World Awards, and guide chefs who would become culinary personalities of the world. fame. But instead of resting on his laurels, he continues because of his love for food and his passion for culinary excellence that began at an early age.

Raised on a farm just outside of Lyon, France, Boulud spent his childhood raising cattle, making cheese and charcuterie from scratch, and eating delicious food cooked by his foodie family. This prompted him to quit school at the age of 14 and work in a small town restaurant, which would be the start of his brilliant career, the milestones of which included working at Michelin-starred establishments in France, his move to the United States in 1981 to work as a private conductor for an ambassador, and lead Le Cirque in New York as executive conductor a year later.

His biggest breakthrough came when he opened his eponymous restaurant in 1993 and introduced gourmets to his new style of cuisine, refined French cuisine anchored in the rhythm of the seasons. From that moment he built his empire whose concepts ranged from bistro-style cuisine to Mediterranean dishes. These are inspired by his culinary memories of growing up in France, working in the United States, traveling the world and dining in the best restaurants.

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What do you miss the most when you’re away from France or haven’t been back for a while?

When I’m away from France, I really miss visiting the Burgundy and Rhone regions for wines and visiting all the top winemakers.

What is the first dish you eat on your return and where do you go to get it?

Every time I come home, I never miss the opportunity to taste the poached chicken with truffles in a pork bladder at Paul Bocuse in Lyon.

Do you have a favorite restaurant in France for fine dining and more casual experiences?

How do you choose? There are so many fantastic restaurants in France, but for fine dining, definitely Maison Troisgros in Ouches and L’ami Jean in Paris for a more casual meal.