In December 2009, Arjun got me a magazine from his trip to Paris, on the cover of which was a chef with black rimmed glasses. I tucked the magazine away, hoping to read it when I learned some French.
2015. I can’t find that magazine, but I now fondly remember it because that was my first introduction to the legend that is Alain Ducasse. Alain Ducasse is the man with 25 restaurants around the world. The man with 21 Michelin Stars. The man who every chef aspires to be.
In fact, let’s have Réne Redzepi introduce M. Ducasse.
Why the sudden regression to 2009?
Because I just won the $20,000 Alain Ducasse Education Scholarship by the James Beard Foundation for 2015-16.
!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!
It’s still hard to believe, but with all the paperwork I’m dealing with on the side, it’s sinking in.
Without a doubt, I’m indebted to The Culinary Trust (2011, 2013) and the James Beard Foundation (2011, 2015) for having faith in me to award me such prestigious scholarships. I couldn’t have dreamed of a better education.
Starting 21st September, I’ll be back in Paris. My favourite city, my favourite season, just in time for chanterelles and oysters. I”ll be going to school at the Alain Ducasse Training Centre in Argenteuil for three months, followed by a training at their restaurant. The course is meant for professional chefs and at the end of the course I will have a Diploma in Superior Culinary Arts. I am beyond excited and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.
I’m going to have to start looking for a place in Paris to stay again, so if you know of anyone letting/subletting a studio/room/chambre de bonne, I’d be so very grateful to know.