Charles III in Paris: Anne-Sophie Pic, Yannick Alléno and Pierre Hermé in the kitchen

Pauline Masotta | 9/20/23

Emmanuel and Brigitte Macron are doing things right for King Charles III. Three masters of French cuisine were invited to compose an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

From September 20 to 22, 2023, the British monarch, Charles III, will be in France, starting his tour in Paris, before continuing on to Bordeaux. The King and his wife, Camilla Parker Bowles, are invited to dine in the splendid Hall of Mirrors at the Château de Versailles, surrounded by hand-picked guests. The French presidential couple, Emmanuel and Brigitte Macron, have selected three renowned chefs for the meal.

Three chefs, three culinary stages

For this state banquet, culinary magic will be orchestrated under the enlightened direction of Anne-Sophie Pic, Yannick Alléno and Pierre Hermé. Each will occupy a pre-defined position. For example, Anne-Sophie Pic, chef of "La Dame de Pic", is responsible for initiating guests' palates with the first course. Guided by the sacredness of the seasons, she revealed her creation in the columns of Le Point: "Tourteau de casier et homard bleu, voile d'amandes fraîches".

For the main course, chef Yannick Alléno will be in the kitchen. The chef emeritus of the Pavillon Ledoyen has prepared a "poularde Ledoyen": Bresse poultry marinated in Moët et Chandon champagne, served with a corn extraction sauce and gratinated porcini mushrooms.

As for the sweet crowning touch, at Brigitte Macron's request, it's Pierre Hermé's mission to transcend the taste buds at the end of the meal. He will unveil a refined reinterpretation of one of his iconic creations, none other than the Ispahan.

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