The real credit behind the honor of being in the “World’s Best Restaurants” list belongs to the chef. That’s the simple truth. He/ she, along with his/ her staff who toils away in the kitchen, deserves to be recognized. It is not easy to get that Michelin star and it is not easy to win that S.Pellegrino award, but they have managed to do so. They have managed to place their restaurants in that list. Now, who deserves the recognition? Who deserves the honor for S.Pellegrino’s 100 World’s Best Restaurants?

This is the place where you will find the list of the Worlds best restaurants according to S.Pellegrino. The listing has been based upon the top 50 and the 51- 100 as voted by the associated judges of S.Pellegrino.

Please visit this article often. We will have additional information about the chefs that we will link to for more information that you can enjoy and learn from.

Over the coming weeks and days you can expect to find articles associated to the chef aligned with the individual restaurants added to the chef 21 blog.

1. El Bulli, Spain

El Bulli has managed to grab the top spot once again. You would imagine that its chef, Ferran Adria, must be so used to it now. It cannot be denied that he has certainly the world of gastronomy by storm. Adria is now regarded as the world’s best chef.

2. The Fat Duck, U.K.

Just like El Bulli, the Fat Duck has been winning the second spot for several years now. Its chef, Heston Blumenthal deserves the credit. He has always been intrigued by the idea that foods can trigger various emotions and memories in people. He taps on that ability and he creates food for the senses. He has certainly perfected the art of innovative cooking.

3. Noma, Denmark

Noma is one of the big movers of this year’s list. It jumped from 10^th place to 3^rd place. It is certainly posing a threat to El Bulli and the Fat Duck. The credit can only be given to its head chef and owner, Rene Redzepi. Noma has received countless accolades and it has just proven that it can certainly grab the top two spots. Chef Redzepi is fascinated with Nordic cooking. He basically drew his idea from this traditional style of cooking and he invariably creates his own unique taste.

4. Mugaritz, Spain

Mugaritz has managed to retain its 4^th position from last year. One can only imagine what Chef Andoni Luis Aduriz thinks about this. Did he want the top spot? Was he dismayed by Noma grabbing the 3^rd spot? Chef Aduriz certainly deserves this honor. He and his Mugaritz still pose a threat to El Bulli. The latter is not the only restaurant that offers innovative cuisines because Mugaritz’ head chef has certainly mastered the art and he is continuously evolving in his craft. The world can certainly expect more from him.

5. El Celler de Can Roca, Spain

From its 26^th position last year, El Celler de Can Roca has managed to grab the 5^th spot. We can never really accuse El Pellegrino’s World’s Best Restaurants list to be predictably boring. Although the credit can be given to all three Roca brothers who are all working El Celler de Can Roca, we should give credit to its head chef, Joan Roca, the eldest of the brothers. Born of culinary parents, it was inevitable that all three brothers would pursue a career in the culinary arts. The eldest Roca, Chef Joan, regard dining as a sensory experience and he ensures that his customers will love every bite.

6. Per Se, U.S.

Fortunately, Thomas Keller’s Per Se did not lose its position despite the absence of The French Laundry on the list of the top ten best restaurants. This must have come as a huge blow. Fortunately, Chef Jonathan Benno has been able to keep Per Se on the list. A focused chef, Chef Benno exemplifies what a dedicated chef should be. He is deeply committed to his craft and he does not shy away from innovative cooking. He continues to find the best ingredients for his dishes and he continues to impress Per Se’s customers with scrumptious dishes year after year.

7. Bras, France

Chef Michel Bras can breathe a sigh of relief now. He and Bras have made it to another year and they were able to keep their 7^th spot. Of course, Chef Michel would have been happier with a higher rank, but he must have likely said, “This will do for now.” Chef Bras is one of those chefs who adhere to simple methods of cooking. He, however, draws on complex cooking techniques and merges these with his simpler methods; and the results are often astonishingly delicious.

8. Arzak, Spain

Arzak has managed to stay on the top 10 list. This is a great feat considering the surprising results of this year’s El Pellegrino’s 100 World’s Best Restaurants Award. Its chef, Juan Mari Arzak, is a traditional chef. His methods are deeply rooted to traditional cooking, but he readily experiments with new ingredients. Needless to say, he has managed to create unique delicious twist to his otherwise traditional cuisine.

9. Pierre Gagnaire, France

One of the most world-renowned chefs, Pierre Gagnaire probably did not like the fact that his restaurant fell from its position last year to this year’s 9^th position. Regardless of Pierre Gagnaire’s rank this year, its chef is still one of the best chefs in the world. He has influenced countless chefs all over the world; and many people have studied and adopted his methods of cooking. Chef Gagnaire has defied traditional cooking and has adopted a more liberal approach to culinary arts.

10. Alinea, U.S.

Chef Grant Achatz’s Alinea certainly made a huge leap on the list from it’s 21^st position last year to this year’s 10^th position. This is actually not surprising considering that he honed his skills by training under some of the best chefs. In fact, he even worked at The French Laundry before he embarked on his own. He has fully explored his potential but he is not finished yet. It is inevitable that Alinea will reap all the benefits of its chef’s hard work.

11. L’Astrance, France

Chef Pascal Barbot has managed to stay on the list. That’s not surprising considering the fact that Chef Barbot is not just a chef, he is an artist. He really defines what it means to be a culinary artist. He makes sure that his restaurant serves only the best dishes. Guests can expect delicious meals every time they’d eat at L’Astrance.

12. The French Laundry, U.S.

Dropping to the 12^th spot after being on the 5^th position last year must have come as a huge blow to The French Laundry. Fortunately, for its chef, Thomas Keller, Per Se has managed to stay on the top 10 list. Chef Keller, however, is one of the best chefs in the world. IN fact, he has been named as Chef of the Year and Best American Chef. He boasts of 3 Michelin stars for The French Laundry and for Per Se as well. He has won countless of awards in cooking and he will continue to amaze the world with his wonderful cuisines. We can only wait for what will happen next year.

13. Osteria Francescana, Italy

Osteria Francescana is a new entry to El Pellegrio’s World’s Best Restaurants list. You can say that the sudden entry of this restaurant in the top 20 list is certainly unexpected. Massimo Bottura is one-of-a-kind Italian chef. He is not like your typical chef and his restaurant is not like your typical Italian restaurant. He is almost eccentric in his cooking approach. He adheres to modern methods of cooking but he also draws from the classical methods as well. He is now regarded as one of the most original and innovative chefs in Italy.

14. St. John, U.K.

Fergus Henderson, St. John’s chef is certainly one of the most innovative ones. In fact, he has taken culinary arts to an entirely new but delicious level. His cuisines though are not something that everyone can appreciate. You may have to reconsider his blood cakes or his salad of ox tongue with bread and green sauce. These dishes may not be your cup of tea. Still, Fergus Henderson must be doing something right because it has managed to stay in the list and it has moved up the list. There is still so much that the world can expect from St. John’s chef.

15. Le Bernardin, U.S.

Chef Eric Ripert of Le Bernardin grew up in a family where cooking is a favorite pastime, so it is not surprising that he eventually pursued a career in the culinary arts. Chef Ripert loves to experiment with his ingredients and his techniques. Often, he would end up with surprisingly innovative and delicious dishes. It is practically inevitable that Le Bernardin will end up in the 15^th spot of the El Pellegrino’s World’s Best Restaurants list.

16. Restaurant de l’Hotel de Ville, Switzerland

When Fredy Girardet passed on the reins of this restaurant to Philippe Rochat, he probably knew that he was making a good decision. Chef Rochat continued the same cooking traditions that Girardet has adopted for Restaurant de l’Hotel de Ville. Of course, he did not end there however. He also introduced his own flavors. Being a hands-on chef, it is not surprising that he has managed to secure a place in the list.

17 Tetsuya’s, Australia (-8)

Getting into the El Pellegrino’s World’s Best Restaurants list must not have been easy, but Chef Tetsuya Wakuda has managed to get his Australian/Chinese restaurant into the list. People had high expectations, however, for Tetsuya’s – and it must have disappointed a lot of people when Tetsuya‘s failed to meet those expectations and it fell to the 17^th spot. I doubt though if this will deter Chef Tetsuya. After all, he is the chef who left his hometown and managed to carve a name for himself in a new land. His French/Japanese cooking techniques will pay off. It will be a big mistake to write off this indomitable Japanese chef from Australia.

18. L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon, France (-4)

Who doesn’t know Chef Joel Robuchon? You must at least have heard of him. Who hasn’t? He is one of the world’s most renowned chefs. He is also a celebrated and successful restaurateur. He once rested his cap – but only for a while because he’s now back from retirement. His skills rested on his ability to combine and intensify flavors, tastes and textures. He focuses on particular flavors and he accentuates these flavors. He is practically an expert on this.

19. Jean Georges, U.S. (-2)

Jean Georges is one of the best restaurants in the United States and this has managed to grab the 19^th spot in this year’s El Pellegrino’s World’s Best Restaurants list. Its chef and restaurant named the restaurant after himself. Jean Georges is a genius in French cuisines. He is one of those gifted ones – chefs with great and unique culinary visions. He has set high standards for his contemporaries when it comes to modern French cooking.

20. Les Creations de Narisawa, Japan (New Entry)

The genius behind the stoves of Les Creations de Narisawa is its chef and honor Chef Yoshihiro Narisawa, a chef with an unorthodox or unusual approach to French cooking. He has the talent to skillfully mix and blend traditional and contemporary French cooking. He has managed to test the boundaries of French cooking and he has not failed in his attempts to push the frontiers. Over the past year, he has received countless accolades from chefs all over the world. He has caught the fancy of the culinary world, enough to land the 20^th spot in this year’s list.

21. Chez Dominique, Finland

Chez Dominique moved 18 places to the 21^st spot. This is certainly a promising year for the restaurant and its chef, Hans Valimaki. What makes this restaurant stands out is its chef ability to create “fun” and to entertain. Indeed, he professes to be an entertainer and it’s not hard to believe this once you have met Chef Valimaki. His dishes and recipes are incredibly exciting. He compiles various cuisines and infuses something different. He can recreate moods and atmospheres with his dishes. Indeed, every dish is a treat to the senses. Admittedly, there are some people who’d call his cuisines “weird”. He would just likely laugh this opinion off. After all, he admits to the same thing.

22. Ristorante Cracco, Italy

There are many Italian chefs and there are many world-renowned ones. Perhaps, this is because Italians like French have a natural knack for cooking. There are several Italian chefs who have earned Michelin stars for themselves. One of this is Ristorante Cracco’s Carlo Cracco, the head chef and owner of this Italian restaurant. He undoubtedly deserves the three Michelin stars. In fact, he is one of the first Italian chefs to have won Michelin stars. What can you expect from this chef? You can expect innovative cuisines. He is not afraid to experiment with his dishes but he does this with a certain degree of restraint.

23. Die Schwarzwaldstube, Germany

Just like other great chefs, Die Schwarzwaldstube’s Chef Harald Wohlfahrt takes advantage of the freshest and unique ingredients that he can gather from his area. This is quite easy because he can enjoy diversity of supply of various ingredients in the place. He ensures that when he cooks, he’d always use one significantly unique ingredient that will make all the difference to an otherwise plain dish. It is fairly common to find him using berries, mushrooms, quail, deer and other local ingredients in his cooking. These things actually make all the difference. It is not surprising why he has been able to place his restaurant on the 23^rd list. This is a significant climb for Die Schwarzwaldstube and its chef Harald Wohlfahrt.

24. D.O.M., Brazil

D.O.M. is not new to the list, but it jumped 16^th places to the 24^th spot. This is also this year’s winner of the Best Restaurant in South America Award. This award was given during the actual S. Pellegrino 50 World’s Best Restaurant’s awarding ceremony and it was sponsored by Acqua Panna. Its chef, Alex Atala, did not develop his love for cooking at an early age unlike other great chefs who were introduced to culinary arts by their families. Atala was an outstanding disc jockey. Eventually, he left the world of music and ventured into another art – the art of cooking. Now, he is considered to be Brazil’s finest chef. He has perfected the technique of incorporating Amazonian ingredients into French cooking, thus, creating dishes that offer the taste of real Brazil. This year ushered in the opening of another restaurant, Dalva e Dito. Perhaps, we shall find this one in next year’s list. For the meantime, Sao Paulo can enjoy the best of Brazilian-French cooking.

25. Vendome, Germany

Vendome surprised the culinary world with its entry last year, but it has definitely proven itself to be worthy of being one of the best. It has jumped 9 places up to the 25^th position. The world can still expect a lot from its chef, Joachim Wissler. This chef is not going to retire anytime soon. He will continue his ascent by perfecting his cooking style. Just like other equally outstanding chefs, he has the knack for creating haute cuisines out of the most humble ingredients in his area. He will go along well with Chef Henderson for he, too, likes to use unusual ingredients like pig’s ear and calf’s cheek.

26. Hof van Cleve, Belgium (+2)

Every morning, you will find Hof van Cleve’s chef Peter Goosen taking in the feel and atmosphere of West Flander. This actually inspires his cooking. This probably pays off well because his dishes practically exemplify fine dining at its finest. Of course, Chef Goosen does not stray far from rural cuisines. He sticks to it as much as possible. This is why you would often see him preparing dishes after dishes without much ado.

27. Masa, U.S.

Masa’s head chef and owner is Masa Takamaya. Masa has broken into El Pellegrino World’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2007, but it lost its place in 2008. This year, however, proves to be an entirely different year for Masa. It has won the 27^th spot in the list. This is not surprising because Masa has certainly a lot to offer when it comes to Japanese cuisines. Chef Masa merges Western and Eastern cuisines, techniques and ideas; and the results are often mouthwatering dishes.

28. Gambero Rosso, Italy

The fall of Gambero Rosso to the 28^th place is quite disappointing. This restaurant is one of the world’s favorites. Chef Fulvio Pierangelini recipes are actually quite spectacularly different. He sticks to modern techniques with an edgier quality to them. He likes to experiment with his ingredients and dishes and he is not hesitant to jump into the unknown realm of culinary arts. Needless to say, he continually creates new tastes. It is not difficult to understand why he has made the list and why his restaurant continues to make the list. It’s just too bad that it has dropped to the 28^th position, but it is too early to give up on Gambero Rosso and its chef just yet.

29. Oud Sluis, Netherlands

Oud Sluis and chef Sergio Herman is not new to the list; however, it is one of the best performers in this year’s list. It jumped 13^th places to the 29^th spot. It certainly deserves the honor. After all, people know how difficult it is to get a table reservation in one of Netherland’s hottest restaurants. In fact, some would argue that this is the country’s best restaurant. You would have to make a dinner reservation months in advance if you want to dine at Oud Sluis. The genius behind all this popularity is Chef Sergio Herman who has the natural knack for collecting and using the most natural and unique ingredients from Dutch Zeeland province.

30. Steirereck, Austria

Inarguably Vienna’s best restaurant, Steirereck is probably the best in Austria as well. Chef Heinz Reitbaeur ensures that his customers will come out smiling, satiated and completely satisfied whenever they would dine at Steirereck. You will find thousands of wines on the restaurant’s wine menu. The restaurant has a Meireri Milk Bar where 120 cheeses from all over the world are used. The restaurant’s chef does not stop there however. He, too, has his own farm where he grows most of his secret ingredients.

31. Momofuku Ssam Bar, U.S.

A new entry to this year’s list, Chef David Chang of Momofuku Ssam Bar must have been ecstatic to grab the 31^st spot. This restaurant is inarguably one the most unique establishments in the list. This has certainly broken the mould. For years, El Pellegrino World’s 50 Best Restaurants included gourmet restaurants and haute cuisines that cost a lot of money. This restaurant, however, is far from being a “snobbish restaurant”. First of all, it has a no reservation policy. Secondly, you can get reasonably priced dinner – and this means, meals that will cost you only $12! This is definitely something else.

32. Oaxen Skaergaardskrog, Sweden

Another big mover, Oaxen Skaergaardskrog jumped 16 places to land on the 32^nd spot. This restaurant is located in a small Swedish island, Oaxen. Despite the remoteness of the place, you will find people traveling for an hour just to experience what Chef Magnus Ek has to offer. Fortunately, this chef never disappoints. He uses various local ingredients and traditional Swedish cooking methods in order to prepare his dishes. He continually reinvents himself, his cooking and his restaurant, so it is a tradition for Oaxen Skaergaardskrog to offer reinvented and improved meals every year. It is definitely interesting to know how he had reinvented last year’s meals.

33. Martin Berasategui, Spain

Although Martin Berasategui moved four places down the list, it has still managed to stay on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list. That, by itself, is a great feat for this restaurant. If you are a fan of Basque cooking, you should definitely consider checking out what this restaurant has to offer. Their cuisine basically sets the benchmark for this kind of cooking. The perfection of their dishes is a result of the careful combination of science and culinary arts. This method definitely coaxes out intense flavors from various ingredients such that the result is inevitably bold and ultimately delicious.

34. Nobu U.K.

Mark Edwards must have been disappointed by this year’s position, but he must have still given a sigh of relief. After all, it is not easy to get into the top 50 spots. Chef Ramsay knows this only too well. Nobu’s position does not come as a surprise however. After all, it still offers innovative Japanese cuisines. Over the years, this restaurant has managed to stick to the ideals that defined it. Its chef has been able to maintain the original vision that Matsuhisa had for Nobu.

35. Mirazur, France

This is another new entry to this year’s list. Mirazur is relatively new. It first opened its doors to the public in April 2006. There are many reasons why Mirazur has gained immense popularity in France. First of all, it is ideally located in Menton, so it is accessible to everyone from Monte Carlo and Italy as well as the people from the Mediterranean. It is also near the the markets of Vientimiglia, so its owner Mauro Colagreco has immediate access to the freshest and best products, sea food, fruits and herbs.

36. Hakkasan, U.K.

Many people had high expectations from Hakkasan. Many people in the culinary world expected that Hakkasan would have made the list of top ten restaurants. This is why it was surprising to find this restaurant falling off to the 36^th spot. When talking of Hakkasan, rarely do people talk of its chef Tong Chee Hwee when in fact, people should talk about him. After all, Hakkasan’s success can be credited to his genius. He has managed to change the image of Chinese restaurants – no greasy Chinese takeouts for this chef and this restaurant.

37. Le Quartier Francais, South Africa

One of the upward movers in this year’s list, Le Quartier Francais has managed to grab the 37^th spot. This restaurant is not new to the list. It has, however, moved 13 places up the list. An outstanding rural retreat, it is not easy to get to Le Quartier Francais. You really would have to want to experience the magic of Chef Margot Jansen’s cooking to go to Le Quartier Francais. Her cooking, however, is truly magical. She uses local ingredients and she creates the most delicious dishes out of these things.

38 La Colombe, South Africa

La Colombe is not new to the World’s 50 Best Restaurant lists. It is, however, a re-entry in this year’s list. It has managed to do so under the leadership of Chef Luke Dale Roberts. In truth, the restaurant has won numerous praises since Chef Roberts took the reins. La Colombe has definitely a lot to offer. It has a huge wine list for one and you can always expect its chef to provide the most outstanding dishes.

39. Asador Etxebarri, Spain

Who said that grilled foods cannot win the top prize? The specialty of Chef Victor Arguinzoniz may not have won him the 1^st spot in this year’s list, but it has helped him to grab the 39^th spot – and that is no easy feat. As an owner and head chef of Asador Etxebarri, Chef Arguinzoniz focused on grilled dishes. He definitely knows how to grill his meat right. Gathering locally produced ingredients, he can cook classic grill foods like caviar and oysters over charcoals – and he can grill these things to perfection.

40. Le Chateaubriand, France

He would have been just another French chef in a land that abounds with numerous culinary geniuses, but Inaki Aizpitarte broke out from the general mould by winning the Breakthrough Restaurant Award last year and grabbing the 40^th spot in this year’s World’s 50 Best Restaurants. He practices unrestraint approach to cooking. He experiments with modern, innovative and affordable cuisines. Affordability is actually very important to him. He wants his customers to enjoy their meals without worrying too much about the price.

41. Daniel, U.S.

Managing to land the same spot on the list, Chef Daniel Boulud’s restaurant, Daniel, continues to impress with his cuisines. As a restaurateur, Chef Boulud actually has several restaurants, but this one located in the Upper East Side of Manhattan takes the top spot. This is where he combines French and American styles and flavors. He embraces the egalitarian approach and he devotes his time to creating delicious dishes again and again.

42. Combal Zero, Italy

Talk about a truly spectacular museum experience! That is what the Museum of Contemporary Art in Piedmont has to offer. You only need to visit the museum to get to Combal Zero as it is set inside the museum. It is there that you will be able to enjoy the wonderful cuisines of Chef Davide Scabin. Chef Scabin’s dishes are certainly unique. You will find helium balloons served along your meal. You will have campari capsules exploding in front of you. Indeed, this chef defines experimental, innovative and creative cooking.

43. Le Louis XV, France

There are two words that will define the dishes you will get from this Alain Ducasse’ restaurant – opulence and decadence. Indeed, the cuisines are practically decadent which is just fitting considering the restaurant’s name. This has always been in the list of the World’s Best Restaurants. This is just as well as expected. Ducasse’ has a really huge influence on the style and techniques of the establishment’s chef, Franck Cerutti. Chef Cerutti loves to experiment with Mediterranean ingredients and combine these things with French cooking techniques. The results are often spectacularly surprising.

44. Tantris, Germany

Tatris is not new to the list. It was one of the heavyweights in last year’s list and it has moved up three spots and grabbed the 44^th spot. The one unique thing that this restaurant has to offer is its incessant refusal to conform to the idea of gourmet cooking. Its head chef, Hans Haas, offers dishes that are simply innovative. A dinner at Tantris is definitely a wonderful and memorable experience.

45. Iggy’s, Singapore

The doors of Iggy’s have been opened for five years now. Over the years, this restaurant has received countless accolades. Its obvious absence, along with the continuous absence of other outstanding Asian restaurants, in the list has been a source of disapproval. Iggy’s has received much admiration over the past two years and it was really just a matter of time before it will get into the World’s Best Restaurants list – and it finally did get into the list. In fact, it has managed to grab the 45^th spot. This is a really an impressive achievement. Ignatius Chan and his staff really deserve the honor. They offer a menu is certainly impressive to say the least. Every dish offers tremendous abundance of taste and flavor.

46. Quay, Australia

Quay is a new entry to the list. A restaurant from Australia, this certainly poses a threat to Tetsuya’s, the latter being this year’s best restaurant in Australia. This spot definitely caps Chef Peter Gilmore’s achievements so far. He has received several awards at home and this one definitely tops it all. Being the owner and the chef, he has full control of his restaurants menu. Thus, you will find quite rare ingredients cooked to perfection. The flavors and textures of his dishes are simply outstanding. Diners can definitely enjoy their meals while they marvel at the beauty of the Sydney Harbor.

47. Les Ambassadeurs, France

Dining in this restaurant is a really memorable experience. Their food is positively sinful. This is something that Chef Jean Francois Piege has always made sure that his restaurant would offer. He spends hours combing through markets looking for the finest ingredients. Using traditional and classical French cooking techniques, he will spend hours whipping up decadently delicious dishes. The whole dining experience is quite luxurious.

48. Dal Pescatore, Italy

It must have been disappointing for the Santini’s to have lost their comfortable position last year and landed on the 48^th position. They are practically two spots off El Pellegrino World’s 50 Best Restaurants list. Despite this, however, one can still expect to get mouthwatering dishes at this unique Italian restaurant. You will find dishes that deliciously balance traditional and innovative cuisines. At its helm, Nadia Santini has proven herself to be one of the best women chefs in Italy and the world. Of course, this doesn’t mean that she can’t compete with her male counterparts.

49 Le Calandre, Italy

Dropping 13 places to the 49^th spot must have been tough for Le Calandre. Fortunately, for its chef Massimiliano Alajmo, it has managed to stay in the top 50 list – and that is definitely something else. Chef Alajmo is actually a fairly young chef. In fact, he is the youngest Italian chef who has managed to earn three Michelin stars. This is a really great achievement and this speaks so much of what this young chef has still to offer. Needless to say, we should still hold our breaths for this chef and Le Calandre.

50. Mathias Dahlgren, Sweden

For a new entry, the chef of Mathias Dahlgren must have been so relieved to have made it to El Pellegrino World’s 50 Best Restaurants. This is a great achievement for a restaurant that has just opened a couple of years ago. Mathias Dahlgren has captured people’s fancy with the availability of two choices – either to eat informally in the “Food Bar” or to eat formally in the restaurant’s dining room. Either ways, diners are offered traditional dishes that define Swedish dining and cooking. With this kind of originality, it is not really surprising why this restaurant has managed to grab the last spot of the World’s Best 50.

51. Zuma, China

Zuma has always been a popular restaurant in London, but it has invaded Hong Kong. Chinese palates are seemingly receptive to the modern take of Japanese cuisines offered by Zuma. The credit may be given to its Executive Chef, Dan Segall, and his staff. The dishes are authentic Japanese cuisines, but they have a modern twist to them. Food presentation is quite simple; however, the ingredients used are of the best quality.

52. Marcus Wareing at the Berkeley, U.K.

This London restaurant has only been opened for seven months and it has already grabbed the 52^nd spot in the World’s Best Restaurants list. This is quite an accomplishment for Marcus Wareing. However, this is not really surprising considering the kind of service that the restaurant offers. This restaurant really defines fine dining. It offers access to the wonderful cuisines of one of Britain’s finest chefs. Chef Wareing has lways been known for his technical brilliance when it comes to cooking French dishes.

53. Spondi, Greece

Spondi is one of the best places that Greece has to offer. Landing this year’s 53^rd spot proves just that. The charming restaurant is actually a 19^th century townhouse with its own courtyard. It invites sheer comfort and relaxation. It offers modern French cuisine with a touch of Greek. The restaurant catapulted into fame when Arnaud Bignon took the kitchen reins. Chef Bignon learned from the best at an early gave. He started to pursue a culinary career at the age of 15. He climbed the culinary ladder rungs and worked in the kitchens of some of the best chefs in the world. A young chef, he will undoubtedly astound the world more with his cooking.

54. L’Arpege, France

One of the most popular restaurants in Paris, L’Arpege is run by Alain Passard. It grabbed the 46^th spot in last year’s list, but ended at the 54^th spot in this year’s list. It is Chef Passard who has brought the attention of culinary experts and customers alike in this restaurant. In truth, many will likely argue that there is no restaurant that serves better food than L’Arpege. Of course, people have their favorites. Still, those who will claim this really knows what they are talking about. Chef Passard knows his seafood dishes well. He pushes the boundaries and elevates the quality level when it comes to cooking fishes and shellfishes.

55. L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon, China

Joel Robuchon has restaurants scattered all over the globe. In November of 2006, he opened one in Hong Kong. This restaurant has landed the 55^th spot in El Pellegrino World’s 100 Best Restaurants list. People can now dine at a circular eating counter and watch the chefs prepare their food. The chef in charge of the kitchens is Chef Philippe Groult who undoubtedly has all the trust of Chef Robuchon.

56. Hibiscus, U.K.

Hibiscus offers classical cuisines with a modern twist. Chef Claude Bosi draws from every cooking technique imaginable to create his dishes. People definitely love his tart au chocolat with Indonesian Bali ice cream or his sea bass with mushrooms. With the restaurants mouthwatering dishes and their extensive wine list, it is not surprising that Hibiscus has landed the 56^th spot in this year’s list.

57. Aqua, Germany

Aqua boasts of the highest ranking Wolfsburg chef in the world. Michelin Guide has awarded this honor to its chef, Sven Elverfeld. One of the most popular restaurants in Germany, this is probably the best in the country as well. Some of Chef Elverfeld cuisines that you should try include its spinach mousseline and Etouffe pigeon with Perigord truffle cream.

58. Le Gavroche, U.K.

Talk about devotion! Chef Michel Roux has certainly devoted half of its life to Le Gavroche. It must have been disappointing for him to have his restaurant land on the 58^th spot after its great position last year. Chef Roux has worked in Le Gavroche for almost 20 years. Like other great chefs, he is very particular with his ingredients. He only worked with the freshest ingredients. A bite of his braised beef in red wine and creamed potatoes will certainly be blissful. It is interesting to see how he and Le Gavroche will fair in next year’s list.

59. Chez Panisse, U.S.

Chez Panisse and its chef really take inventive cooking to an entirely new level. Chef Alice Waters is quite legendary in this regard. She could transform the most ordinary dish into something really extraordinary. Of course, aside from its incredible chef, this restaurant is also known for its personal, efficient and friendly service. Chez Panisse is one of the best restaurants in the world. Its chef and owner, Alice Walters, truly deserves this honor. After all, it’s not only just her restaurant that has won countless awards. She, too, share the same honor.

60. Les Amis, Singapore

To cope with the economic climate, restaurant owners are ensuring that people can afford their meals and services. Les Amis is one of these restaurants. This grand old dame certainly defines luxurious but affordable dining. The ambiance, food and service are certainly outstanding. The restaurant’s set lunches really showcase the skill of Les Amis’ chef Armin Leitgeb. Chef Leitgeb has worked with some of the world’s finest chesf. People definitely love his foie gras. No wonder Les Amis is one of the favorite spots in Singapore. Now, it has received the honor of being one of the world’s best restaurants.

61. El Poblet, Spain

El Poblet is one of the most popular restaurants in Spain. In fact, it is one of the major culinary destinations in the country. What this restaurant has to offer is its owner and chef’s various rice specialties. Chef Quique Dacostas’ cooking may have been overlooked if not for these specialties. For a young chef, he has already developed his own avant-garde style of cooking. His techniques are largely influenced by the god of modern cooking, Ferran Adria. El Poblet is one of those restaurants that we have to check up on next year. It truly has great promise.

62. Maison Pic, France

Imagine a mouthwatering Charolais beef steak with foie gras with baby leeks and nutmeg. That’s the kind of delicious meals one would expect from Maison Pic. In fact, this is one of their most popular dishes. The credit can be given to its chef Anne Sophie Pic, the first woman to have received 3 Michelin stars in 50 years. The history of this restaurant dates back to 1891. It was Anne-Sophie’s grandmother, Sophie Pic who opened the first restaurant in 1891. Over the years, the family has been able to maintain the restaurant. Sophie’s son, Andre is a 3 Michelin-star chef. One can only conclude that the culinary skills really do run in the family.

63. Cafe Pushkin, Russia

Many people consider this restaurant as the best in Moscow. The reputation of Café Pushkin as Russia’s best is undoubtedly established. Having had seized the 63^rd spot of this year’s list, it has once again proven itself. This 24-hour restaurant offers the magic of Chef Andrei Makhov’s cooking. A restaurateur and a chef, he really knows what he is doing. He favors mixing French and Russian cuisine, so the restaurant’s menu consists mainly of meats topped with rich French-Russian sauces. He also draws inspiration from Asian cooking, so this influences his techniques as well.

64. Le Meurice, France

It has only been lately that Le Meurice received its third star from Michelin Guide. Now, it is a member of the exclusive 3-star club. Not all restaurants have this honor, but Le Meurice deserves all its stars. Its cuisine is simply the best. It is everything one would expect from Chef Yannick Alleno. This chef adheres to modern cooking techniques. He pushes himself though. In truth, his cooking borders on being audacious. His menu includes subtly rich dishes that will surely satisfy your palate.

65. Bukhara, India

This year’s list has really been surprising with the entry of many Asian restaurants. One of these restaurants is Bukhara, the best restaurant in India. It has been heralded as such by many food critics and magazines. Its reputation precedes itself, so it is not really surprising that it has grabbed the 65^th spot. This must have been such a great honor for Chef Bukhara Singh. Of course, many people actually vouch for his cooking. He prepares authentic Indian food. He is well-known for his wood-fire meats. Over the past 20 years, the menu of Bukhara hasn’t been changed. Curiously, it has never failed to draw people in and satisfy them.

66. Varvari, Russia

Little has been written about Varvari. Still, this restaurant must have caught the fancy of many culinary enthusiasts and experts because it has landed the 66^th spot in this year’s list. What it offers though is exquisite Russian cuisine. Its house specialties are simply mouthwatering. People will find perfectly wrapped muttons to satisfy their hunger pangs. This is not the place to go to if one is trying to lose weight.

67. Schauenstein, Germany

Having had won Chef of the Year in 2008, Schauenstein’s chef Andreas Caminada definitely knows his worth. He has been working in this castle-housed restaurant for the last six years. The restaurant rose into fame when he took over as head chef. When once it would have been easy to get a reservation, now, it takes months for one to get a table in this Swedish restaurant.

Chef Caminada has been in the culinary business for a significant length of time. In fact, his career history is quite impressive. He worked in many Michelin-starred restaurants, so it is not surprising that he has picked numerous techniques, styles and skills along the way.

68. RyuGin, Japan

The doors of RyuGin are fairly unassuming. The restaurant has a red door and a porch. You would not think that this restaurant tucked away in a quite street off noisy Roppongi is one of the best restaurants in the world. It has snatched the 68^th spot. This must have been such a great honor for its chef Seiji Yamamto. Do not expect Japanese food here. Chef Yamamto’s cooking must have been influenced by Japanese cuisines, but he is cooking and serving French food. He has ingeniously mixed the traditional kaiseki with the popular molecular gastronomy. He has perfected the art of food fusion; although, he doesn’t really approve of the term. He has certainly wowed the world with his skills – enough that the great masters Joel Robuchon and Ferran Adria actually took upon themselves to travel to Japan and dine at RyuGin. Now, that is really something else!

69. La Maison Troisgros, France

Chef Michel Troisgros is a modern chef. It is surprising considering how old La Maison Troisgros is. You would think that its chef would be more traditional in cooking style. On the contrary, Chef Michel is quite innovative and modern. Of course, this does not preclude him from drawing ideas from the traditional methods every now and then, so it is not really surprising that he has managed to get into this year’s list; albeit, La Maison Troisgros has only ended up in the 69^th spot. This doesn’t mean there is nothing more that we can expect from Troisgros and its chef. An inventive and innovative chef has always something up his sleeves.

70. Wasabi, India

It is a great year for many chefs in India. With the entry of Indian restaurants in El Pellegrino World’s 100 Best Restaurants list, many chefs must have seen many doors and opportunities opening for them. Wasabi restaurant is a restaurant located in Taj Hotel, but contrary to what people might expect, it does not offer Indian food. Its chef, Masaharu Morimoto, offers authentic Japanese food. A meal in Wasabi is probably the most expensive one in town.

71. The River Cafe, U.K.

This is probably one of the most iconic restaurants in the United Kingdom. It reopened its doors to the public in October 2008 after a fire broke out which required the restaurant to close for six months to do some major repairs. It must have been a really good news for its chefs Rose Gray and Ruth Rogers to have been able to grab the 71^st spot. The River Café offers hearty meals like steak dressed with lemon, butter and marjoram or veal in anchovy sauced and creamy polenta. The chefs’ simple yet mouthwatering Italian cuisine has certainly satisfied thousands of pallets over the years.

72. Enoteca Pinchiorri, Italy

This is one of the few restaurants in Italy that has won three Michelin stars. This is indeed a really great accomplishment, but it is not hard to understand why. Many people will probably argue that this is the best restaurant in Italy. Regardless of the outcome of this argument, most diners would likely come out of Enoteca Pinchiorri completely satisfied of the mouthwatering food that Chef Annie Feolde prepares. She uses the most unusual ingredients. You would probably think her ingredients have practically jumped out of a Harry Potter book. Still, everything is quite delicious which is just as well as expected considering that this chef is a three-star Michelin chef.

73. Le Cinq, France

73^rd is certainly a disappointing position for Le Cinq when it ranked higher last year. One would have expected better from this restaurant and its chef. For a chef that refuses to work with trends and who adheres to innovative cooking, Chef Phillippe Legendre must have expected something better from this year’s list. Chef Legendre is an innovative chef who is not afraid to experiment and stray away fro traditional or classical French cooking. He creates his own interesting but delicious interpretations; and this style has always worked well for him. For a chef and restaurant that has managed to win Michelin stars in just under a year, there is still a lot to expect from Le Cinq and its chef.

74. Allegro, Czech Republic

No, it’s not actually the chef or the restaurant that draws people to Allegro. It is the chef’s cooking. Chef Andrea Accordi is without a doubt the most heralded chef in this part of the world. People cannot just get enough of the mouthwatering and luscious Italian dishes that Chef Accordi carefully prepares. Indeed, this chef has pushed the boundaries and raised the bar for all the chefs in Prague and Czech Republic as well. Allegro is still one of the best Italian restaurants in Europe – or the world.

75. Quintessence, Japan

Quintessence’s chef, Shuzo Kishida, learned from one of the best. He worked in L’Astrance in Paris for four years and he became the devoted follower of Chef Pascal Barbot. His mentor has taken the world by storm and L’Astrance is a permanent fixture in the list, so it is not surprising that Chef Kishida would follow his mentor’s footsteps. He has indeed learned a lot and he has brought his own unique style into his cooking. It’s not all Barbot. There’s a lot of Kishida in his cooking too. He prepares stunning dishes using the best ingredients. His dishes are simple, beautiful and simply mouthwatering. Curiously, he uses the simplest ingredients. In the end, one can only credit everything to his talent and skill.

76. Restaurant Dieter Mueller, Germany

Restaurant Dieter Mueller is probably one of the loveliest restaurants in the country. Its menu is quite popular among its customers, local and foreign alike. Its professional, friendly and attentive staff is also something else. It’s not surprising that the restaurant has grabbed the 76^th spot in the list. This is the playground of the world-renowned chef Dieter Muller who personally prepares and cooks scrumptious dishes that are rich in flavor and light in texture. This restaurant has always been one of the best restaurants in Germany – and oh, it is now one of the best in the world!

77. Geranium, Denmark

The customers of Geranium are always in for a treat. After all, this restaurant serves food prepared by Rasmus Kofoed, a silver medalist at the Bocuse d’Or, and Chef Soren Ledet, a former co-head chef at the kitchens of Noma. Needless to say, Geranium has world-class chefs working in its kitchens. Both chefs have a penchant for the finest and greenest ingredients. They like using organic foods, so it’s not surprising that they are able to create the finest dishes as well.

78. Caprice, China

Caprice is a gorgeous restaurant. It has over 100 tables and it overlooks Kowloon Peninsula and Victoria Harbour. It is a perfect place for a memorable dining experience. The team working in the kitchen has been practically imported from Cinq restaurant in Paris. The restaurant’s head chef is Vincent Thierry who once worked in Cinq as well. They offer authentic French dining with dishes that are rich, savory, light and refreshing. A dinner at Caprice is certainly unforgettable.

79. Jardines, South Africa

The atmosphere in the kitchens of Jardines is far from relaxing. Everyone works at high intensity. Everyone is an artist. It’s practically an art studio instead of a busy kitchen. This is probably why the restaurant only caters to a small number of customers. This is not a fast food. Every dish is prepared and cooked to perfection. Everything is a work of art and this is the signature of its chef and owner George Jardine.

80. Amador, Germany

With Amador making it to the list, Germany has once proven that it is fast becoming the country of the best chefs in the world. It now ranks next to France on the list of countries with the highest number of chefs with three Michelin stars. Indeed, the world of German dining has grown tremendously over the past years. Amador, for instance, is a 3-Michelin star restaurant. This restaurant boasts of unassuming but authentic elegance. This is the playground of its innovative chef Juan Amador. This Spanish-born chef is fond of succulent meat cuisines. He is a disciple of Ferran Adria’s molecular cuisine. He sticks with the classic but he uses modern methods in cooking. Over time, he has developed his own personal style and he has perfected his craft.

81. Biko, Mexico

Biko offers authentic fine dining. Biko has a quite unique menu – it is practically whimsical. It offers various culinary creations. You will find traditional Spanish fare mixed with modern cuisines. Biko is the brainchild of Bruno Oteiza and Mikel Alonso. These two chefs are devoted followers of Chef Juan Mari Arzak’s culinary style. They call it “evolution cuisine”. Well, whatever they call it, their customers call it “a real treat”.

82. L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon, U.S

Connoisseurs of the popular Joel Robuchon restaurants must be so pleased to know that they would find their favorite dishes offered in L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon. This restaurant also offers customers’ favorite dishes including truffled mashed potatoes and free-range quail stuffed with foie gras. Of course, new creations are offered as well. Customers are still in for a memorable dining treat.

83. Fasano, Brazil

It’s not easy to get a reservation in this restaurant. You need to get a reservation first and you won’t regret that reservation. The whole restaurant is a cathedral of wonderful cuisine. It explains why it is the best restaurant in Sao Paulo. This also explains why its owner Rogerio Fasano is one of the best restaurateurs in this part of Brazil – if not the country. The restaurant offers set menus that are simply mouthwatering. Its customers won’t easily forget their quail and osso buco with saffron risotto.

84. Mozaic, Bali

Mozaic offers its customers three things – repose, fun and great dining experience. Chef Chris Salans menu is a savory experience. He offers a parade of innovatively delicious creations which will practically transport anyone into culinary paradise. It is not really surprising why this quaint Bali restaurant has grabbed a spot in El Pellegrino World’s Best Restaurants list. Both chef and restaurant have been praised, extolled and honored worldwide for the excellent service, cuisine and atmosphere. Chef Salans had worked in several 3-Michelin star restaurants and in the process he has developed his own creative method of cooking. He has startlingly unique techniques that allow him to create simply innovative dishes. His creations have been praised numerous times. He has also been featured in the New York Times Magazine and National Geographic Traveler.

85. Obauer, Austria

A sample of the creations of Chef Karl and Rudolph Obauer is a fairly good enough reason for anyone to take that train ride from Salzburg in order to get to Werfen where Obauer restaurant is located. It’s altogether a quite scenic place. The restaurant offers perfect view of the mountain vistas and the ancient fortresses in the area. For all the aesthetic pleasure that the restaurant offers, nothing beats its culinary fare. The chefs take perfect care that they only use the freshest ingredients. Indeed, great care is given into the selection of ingredients and produce. It is not surprising why the restaurant has been able to grab the 85^th spot in this year’s list.

86. Alain Ducasse au Plaza Athenee, France

Behind the stoves of Alain Ducasse au Plaza Athenee slaves away Chef Christopher Moret who is not actually new to the world of cooking. He has been around and he had studied under the master Alain Ducasse. He has practically devoted his entire career to the Ducasse restaurants. Not surprisingly, his style of cooking has been greatly influenced by Chef Ducasse. You can say that he is a Ducasse guy through and through. He must have been disappointed though with the restaurant’s 86^th position in this year’s El Pellegrino World’s Best Restaurants list.

87. L’Ambroisie, France

The genius behind the fame of L’Ambroise is a very discreet and unassuming chef, Bernard Pacaud. This chef is quite fond of using ingredients that are in season. In fact, he will only use and serve food that are in season. He demands absolute perfection from himself and from his staff. He constantly challenges himself to be better. This reflects on his cooking, so it is not surprising that he has managed to place the restaurant on the 87^th position of this year’s list.

88. Maison Boulud, China

Maison Boulud is the brainchild of Chef Daniel Boulud. Being a two-star chef, Chef Boulud knows his way into getting into the “culinary big league” lists. In truth, it is practically inevitable that we would soon find Maison Boulud in the list of the best restaurants in the world. This is a great achievement considering that it has only opened its doors to the public last year in June 2008. The restaurant’s kitchen is run by Chef Brian Reimer who had previously worked at Daniel Boulud’s restaurant in New York, so he really knows how to prepare the dishes that Maison Boulud are known for. He delicately combines Asian and Western cuisines and he successfully creates mouthwatering dishes.

89. De Librije, Netherlands

There are only two restaurants in Netherlands with three Michelin stars and one of these restaurants is De Librije. Naturally, it only makes sense that it will also have the capacity to get into the World’s Best Restaurants list. With the kind of food and wine that they offer, it is not surprising that it has managed to secure the 89^th spot. The owner and head chef of this restaurant is Jonnie Boer. As a chef, he tends to be quite imaginative – almost wild – in his approach to cooking. He uses unique ingredients like river perch and eel. However, he prepares his dishes so skillfully and carefully that you would hesitate eating a perfect work of art.

90. Babbo, U.S.

Babbo is considered to be one of the best Italian restaurants in the country. Not surprisingly, it takes months to get a dinner reservation at Babbo. After a bit of their homemade pasta, you would understand why people line up to get a table at Babbo. Despite its festive atmosphere, Babbo offers a unassuming elegance that is simply hard to resist. This, aside from Chef Mario Batali’s exquisite Italian meals, draws the crowd. Of course, a lot of credit should be given to Chef Batali. After all, he prepares the incredible food that actually secured the 90^th spot for Babbo.

91. Maze, U.K.

When it comes to abundance, style and elegance, Maze restaurant does not fall behind. Slaving in front of Maze’s stove is Chef Jason Atherton. He is the first British chef who have had completed a stage at El Bulli, the undisputed best restaurant in the world. Aside from El Bulli, Chef Atherton also worked for various restaurants and received training from some of the best chefs in the world. Having had mastered his art, he now has Maze as his culinary playground.

92. Zuma, U.K.

Zuma has always had consistently attracted crowds from all walks of life. You would often find food critics, regular customers, food lovers and celebrities crowding the restaurant. Many people consider Zuma the best restaurant in the world. The genius behind the popularity of Zuma is Rainer Becker. Zuma offers imaginative, inventive and exciting cuisines. You will be served with innovative dishes like sea bass with yuzu or robata grilled tiger prawn with yuzu pepper. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of wine list. It is quite impressive for a Japanese restaurant especially if you would take its sake list into consideration.

93. Manresa, U.S.

Manresa is the playground of Chef David Kinch. This restaurant showcases this chef’s culinary genius. Influenced by French and Catalan cooking, he creates perfectly prepared fusion meals. He also draws inspiration from European cooking traditions and American culinary ingenuity. With the restaurant relaxed atmosphere and outstanding service, there is no reason why anyone would find it lacking.

94. Pier, Australia

When it comes to restaurants that serve the best seafood dishes, Pier will certainly top the list. It won’t fall into the 94^th place. It will probably grab the number one spot. When it comes to seafood cuisine, Chef Greg Doyle certainly knows how to prepare them well. It is this skill that has allowed Pier to land its precarious spot on the list.

95. De Karmeliet, Belgium

Belgium has its own fair share of 3-star restaurants. De Karmeliet certainly tops the list. In fact, some people would say that this is the best restaurant in the country and the credit should be afforded to Chef Geert Van Hecke. He certainly knows his Belgian cuisine and he has definitely perfected his gastronomic skills. This is just as well as you can expect from a 3-Michelin star chef. In fact, he is the first Flemish chef to have received this great honor. Chef Van Hecke specializes in mixing Belgian and French cuisine and he has managed to do this so efficiently and perfectly. He has found the right balance, texture, combination and ingredients.

96. Aubergine, South Africa

South Africa has its own unique offering when it comes to culinary delights. The best way to experience this is to visit Aubergine. A dining experience in this South African restaurant is something that you won’t easily forget. Its service and wine selection complements the kind of food that Chef Harald Bresselschmidt offers. As an owner of Aubergine, Chef Harald makes it a point to never rest on his laurels. He and his restaurant are continually evolving and improving. He constantly offers inventive and exciting dishes which he prepares using only the finest local produce. His cooking is a combination of modern and classical cuisine; although you will also find a taste of Asian ingredients in some of his dishes.

97. Bo Innovation, China

To everyone who has tried eating at Bo Innovation, this small restaurant is one of the unknown treasures of Hong Kong. Of course, with the restaurant making it to El Pellegrino World’s 100 Best Restaurant list, it is definitely not hidden anymore. In truth, this restaurant has grown quite popular. It offers an upscale ambiance with its dim lightning and modernly open kitchen. Its chef, Alvin Leung, is a renaissance man. What makes him standout is his particular skill in preparing food with foie gras. He also has a penchant of using this particular ingredient in almost all of his dishes. Chef Leung definitely likes mixing molecular gastronomy with Chinese cuisines and this seems to be working out so well for him.

98. Rust en Vrede, South Africa

You will find David Higgs slaving away in front of the stoves of Rust en Vrede. Whatever he is doing, he is doing it well. After all, his restaurant is one of the best in the world. His cooking takes on the classics but he makes sure that every dish will taste fresh and savory. He insists only on the freshest ingredients. In fact, the restaurant has its own herb and vegetable garden. He has perfected his own style over the years. He knows South Africa by heart after living there for almost a couple of decades. By now, he knows how to tickle the palates of his customers.

99. Del Posto U.S.

Del Posto is certainly a grand Italian restaurant. That is an undisputable fact. It is so grand that it has even received criticisms for its mahogany and marble exterior. Mario Batali and Joseph Bastianich poured millions of dollars in constructing this restaurant to perfection. They have turned their noses up at things that are considered “hip” in the world of gastronomy. Of course, its popularity cannot be credited to its decor alone. Due regard must be given to the genius of its staff and executive chef Mark Ladner. This unassuming shy chef has really made all the difference between a glamorous restaurant and a great restaurant. This chef has been considered as an unusual chef. He is a perfect anomaly, but his tendency to deviate from traditional cooking seems to serve him well.

100. Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire, UAE

Elegance – that’s the world anyone would use when they see Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire. The restaurant also offers modern and innovative cuisines that are often savory and delicious. These carefully prepared dishes may be attributed to its executive chef, Olivier Biles. Olivier did not just land his positon. He worked for it and he trained under several master chefs. He worked at Pierre Gagnaire’s London and Hong Kong outposts before he finally landed his position at Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire.