Frederic Simonin

The cuisine at Frédéric Simonin represents the culmination of the chef's distinguished career, combining classical French techniques with contemporary sensibilities and a deep respect for seasonal ingredients. As Meilleur Ouvrier de France 2019, Simonin brings exceptional technical skill to every preparation, with particular mastery evident in his sauces and jus—elements that have become hallmarks of his cooking and consistently earn praise from critics and diners alike.

The menu structure reflects a commitment to showcasing ingredients at their peak, with compositions that change to reflect the seasons and the best available products. Simonin's approach emphasizes clarity of flavor and precision of execution, allowing the quality of ingredients to shine while demonstrating sophisticated technique. His royale de foie gras exemplifies this philosophy, transforming a classic French ingredient into a refined preparation that balances richness with elegance. The lièvre à la royale showcases his expertise with game, a traditional French preparation executed with contemporary finesse.

The tasting menu format allows Simonin to present a complete narrative of his culinary vision, with each course building upon the previous one. Dishes demonstrate inventiveness without resorting to gimmickry, maintaining a connection to French gastronomic traditions while incorporating modern techniques and presentations. The chef's work with vegetables receives as much attention as his protein preparations, with seasonal produce treated with the same respect and creativity as premium ingredients.

Desserts provide elegant conclusions to meals, with creations like the litchi-framboise-eau de rose demonstrating Simonin's ability to balance flavors and textures in sweet preparations. The pastry work shows the same precision and creativity evident in savory courses, with presentations that delight the eye while delivering sophisticated flavor combinations.

The wine program, developed in collaboration with an expert sommelier, features carefully selected bottles from renowned vignerons, with particular attention to French regions and producers who share Simonin's commitment to quality and terroir expression. The availability of wines by the glass allows guests to explore pairings that complement each course, enhancing the overall dining experience.