Pierre Gagnaire

Paris, France

Pierre Gagnaire grew up in his family's Michelin-star kitchen, and his eponymous restaurant at the Hotel Balzac, just off the Champs-Élysées in the 8th Arrondissement, is a mature expression of his fine cooking. He's still active in the kitchen, as well as overseeing a globe-spanning empire, which includes spots in Dubai, Hong Kong, Tokyo and Sketch in London's Mayfair. While the descriptions of his dishes at his Parisian address read like poetry, the menus designed around the best of the season from artisans, fishers, market gardeners, winegrowers and breeders, the cooking retains the humour and playfulness for which Gagnaire is known and loved. There's a three-course lunch option and prices climb steeply after this. Expect the likes of morel mushroom casserole with fortified wine flavoured cream; John Dory steak spiced with tandoori, before being seared in brown butter; lamb from the Castille region rubbed with mild garlic and roasted au sautoir; and a series of grand desserts. This is must-do dining for adventurous eaters with deep pockets.

Key Information

• Average price per person $500
• Tasting menu from $507
• Lunch and dinner: Tues – Fri
• +33 1 58 36 12 50
• Visit Pierre Gagnaire's Website

Location

6 Rue Balzac, 8th arrondissement, Paris, 75008 Paris