Michel Richard

Michel Richard

Michel Richard was a renowned French-American chef and restaurateur, known for his innovative approach to French cuisine. He was born on March 7, 1948, in Brittany, France, and passed away on August 13, 2016, in Washington, D.C., United States.

Early Life and Career

Richard began his culinary journey at the age of 14 as an apprentice pastry chef. He moved to Paris in his early twenties, where he worked at the famous pâtisserie Gaston Lenôtre. In 1974, he moved to Los Angeles, California, where he opened his first bakery, named Michel Richard Pastry Shop.

Culinary Achievements

In 1987, Richard opened his first restaurant, Citrus, in Los Angeles. The restaurant was a huge success and was considered a game-changer in the culinary world. He later opened several other restaurants, including Citronelle and Central Michel Richard, both located in Washington, D.C. Richard was known for his playful and inventive approach to French cuisine, often incorporating elements of American comfort food.

Richard received numerous awards throughout his career. He was named the Best Chef in the Mid-Atlantic region by the James Beard Foundation in 2007 and was inducted into the foundation's Who's Who of Food and Beverage in America in 2011.

Personal Life

Richard was married to Laurence Richard, with whom he had three children. He was known for his jovial personality and his love for music, often comparing cooking to composing a symphony.

Legacy

Michel Richard left a significant impact on the culinary world. His innovative approach to French cuisine, combined with his love for American comfort food, has influenced many chefs around the world. His restaurants continue to be popular dining destinations, and his recipes are still enjoyed by many.

See Also

• French Cuisine
• American Cuisine
• Gaston Lenôtre
• James Beard Foundation

References

• Michel Richard's Official Website
• James Beard Foundation's Official Website
• Gaston Lenôtre's Official Website