Raymond Blanc

Raymond Blanc

Raymond Blanc OBE is a French chef, known for his contribution to the culinary world. Blanc is the owner of the two-Michelin-starred restaurant Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons, located in Oxfordshire, England. He is also known for his television appearances and his cookbooks.

Early Life

Raymond Blanc was born on 19 November 1949 in Besançon, France. He was inspired to cook by his mother, who used to prepare meals for the family using fresh, local ingredients. Blanc left school at 16 and started working as a waiter at the Michelin-starred restaurant, Le Palais de la Bière.

Career

In 1977, Blanc opened his first restaurant, Les Quat'Saisons, in Summertown, Oxford. The restaurant quickly gained popularity and was awarded two Michelin stars within just a few years. In 1981, Blanc opened Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons, a country house hotel and restaurant in Great Milton, Oxfordshire. The restaurant has maintained two Michelin stars for over 35 years, making it one of the longest-standing Michelin-starred restaurants in Great Britain.

Blanc has also made numerous television appearances, including the BBC series Kitchen Secrets and The Restaurant. He has written several cookbooks, including Simple French Cookery, Foolproof French Cookery, and Kitchen Secrets.

Personal Life

Blanc resides in Oxfordshire, England. He is married to Natalia Traxel and they have two sons. Despite living in England for many years, Blanc maintains his French citizenship.

Awards and Honours

Blanc has received numerous awards and honours for his contribution to the culinary world. In 2007, he was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for services to the British food industry. He has also received honorary doctorates from several universities, including Oxford Brookes University and The University of Warwick.

See Also

• French Cuisine
• Michelin Guide
• Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons

External Links

• Official Website
• BBC Food - Chefs: Raymond Blanc