Chefs React To The Passing Of The ‘Pope’ of French Cuisine, Paul Bocuse
Paul Bocuse, the chef who revolutionized French cuisine at his 3-Michelin star restaurant, has died at 91 https://t.co/P22igCQLes
— The New York Times (@nytimes) January 21, 2018
Chef Paul Bocuse, considered by many to be the “pope” of French cuisine, passed away over the weekend at the age of 91. His culinary influence has been felt and most importantly, tasted, around the world, with his restaurant empire stretching from Lyon to Epcot. Many of today’s food icons, like Anthony Bourdain, Gordon Ramsay, and Andrew Zimmern, were all influenced by his contributions to the culinary world.
Following Bocuse’s passing, the culinary community came together for an outpouring of love for the legendary chef on social media, with many sharing how Bocuse affected their own lives.
Anthony Bourdain
Paul Bocuse. A hero to me from my earliest days as a cook. A great, great chef who was very kind to me. To have spent time with him was an honor and a dream come true . Rest In Peace. pic.twitter.com/RxDCZwHhHq
— Anthony Bourdain (@Bourdain) January 20, 2018
On Instagram, Bourdain also said that the “most memorable meal of his life” was with Paul Bocuse.
Emeril Lagasse
Saddened by the passing of Paul Bocuse, one of my first mentors. He was an amazing chef who showed the world great French Cuisine. He will be missed.
— Emeril Lagasse (@Emeril) January 20, 2018
The popular New Orleans chef paid tribute to one of his first mentors on Twitter, noting Bocuse’s impact on showcasing French cuisine to the world.
Andrew Zimmern
The world looks a little dimmer today. We lost one of the greats with the passing of Paul Bocuse, a vital link to our culinary heritage and the man who inspired me in 1975 to dedicate my life to what has been my great passion.
My first visit to his restaurant changed my life— Andrew Zimmern (@andrewzimmern) January 20, 2018
Andrew Zimmern credited his choice to pursue his culinary passion to Paul Bocuse. If it weren’t for Chef Bocuse’s influence, Bizarre Foods may not exist today.
Thomas Keller
Chef Paul Bocuse changed our lives and the lives of millions. He set the example for chefs and restauranteurs. He helped us understand the importance of evolution, teaching, mentoring, sharing, and building meaningful relationships. Join me in celebrating his exemplary life. pic.twitter.com/e38ye2tuUP
— Thomas Keller (@Chef_Keller) January 20, 2018
Michelin-starred chef Thomas Keller credited Chef Bocuse with setting the gold standard for chefs to follow in the industry today, and asked for people to join him “in celebrating his exemplary life.”
Al Roker
Paul Bocuse, 91, celebrated French chef, father of #nouvellecuisine and #creator of the #Olympics Of #Food the @Bocusedor died today. I was honored to have met him pic.twitter.com/DzmUSVOnPp
— Al Roker (@alroker) January 20, 2018
The familiar face as Today Show’s weather anchor and former Food Network host gave his thoughts on Chef Bocuse, saying that he was “honored to have met him.”
Wolfgang Puck
Our industry lost a great this weekend. Thank you for your friendship @PaulBocuse. Your leadership and dedication to the craft touched many and will continue to live on through the talented chefs and patrons who have been influenced by your legacy.
— Wolfgang Puck (@WolfgangPuck) January 21, 2018
Chef Wolfgang Puck, who once called Bocuse the “god of cooking,” thanked the culinary titan for his “friendship,” “leadership,” and “dedication” that can be exemplified through all those who knew him.
Gordon Ramsay
Today’s biggest global celebrity chef honored Bocuse, one of the original major chef names worldwide, on Instagram. He called it a “sad day” for chefs around the world, recognizing the impact that Bocuse had not just on French cuisine, but on chefs and culinary talent everywhere.