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Chef Alain Ducasse Receives Forbes Travel Guide Award of Excellence

On February 27, 2025, the distinguished chef Alain Ducasse, celebrated as one of the most influential figures in global gastronomy, was awarded the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide Award of Excellence presented by Baccarat at The Summit held in Monaco. This remarkable accolade is a testament to Ducasse's unwavering commitment to culinary arts and his ongoing dedication to both innovation and excellence in the kitchen.

The award ceremony saw a remarkable gathering of culinary talent, with Forbes Travel Guide CEO Hermann Elger presenting the honor to Ducasse. Notable chefs such as Yannick Alléno, Mauro Colagreco, Marcel Ravin, and Cédric Grolet were also in attendance, lending their support to this significant recognition. The event took place at the elegant Salle des Étoiles at the Monte-Carlo Sporting Club, setting a luxurious backdrop for the celebration.

In his acceptance speech, Ducasse reflected on the meaning of excellence in the culinary field, stating, “Excellence is a word that has always intrigued me because it is like the horizon—it's a direction, yet never fully attainable. By bestowing this award upon me, you honor not just me, but our entire profession and all the teams working alongside me. We are all driven by the aspiration for excellence, and this is our way of creating a legacy.”

Ducasse’s culinary empire is vast and impressive, boasting over 30 restaurants worldwide, including the iconic Louis XV at the Hôtel de Paris in Monte Carlo, where he first made his mark. His influence extends beyond mere dining experiences, as he operates artisan chocolate shops, culinary schools, and is deeply invested in sustainable practices, constantly pushing the boundaries of what gastronomy can achieve.

One of Ducasse's key commitments is to sustainability, with a growing emphasis on plant-based dishes, minimizing the use of fats, sugars, and salts, while championing local ingredients whenever possible. This holistic approach not only elevates the dining experience but sets a new standard in the industry, making it more eco-conscious.

The Forbes Travel Guide Award of Excellence, bestowed by Baccarat, recognizes individuals who elevate the standards of luxury and service, and Ducasse’s recognition underscores his legacy as a remarkable chef, a mentor, and a visionary leader in the hospitality sector. The spirit of culinary excellence championed by Ducasse will continue to thrive, with Forbes Travel Guide planning for The Summit 2026 in Monaco, featuring Ducasse and other celebrated chefs including Alléno, Grolet, and Ravin, who were present this year.

About The Summit

The Summit is an exclusive, invitation-only three-day event that unites the worlds of travel and luxury, described as the most glamorous and stimulating luxury travel conference globally. Hosted by Forbes Travel Guide, which is renowned for creating the only five-star hospitality awards, The Summit attracts top hotel executives, influential travel professionals, and exceptional luxury brands from stunning destinations.

About Forbes Travel Guide

Forbes Travel Guide operates as the sole global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, spas, and ocean cruises, alongside their dining establishments. Their anonymous inspectors evaluate hundreds of stringent standards, prioritizing exceptional service to assist discerning travelers seeking the best experiences worldwide. Achieving a five-star, four-star, or recommended rating demands passing through their rigorous inspection process.

For more information, visit Forbes Travel Guide.