In discussion with celebrated chef Frédéric Vardon

A Michelin-starred chef brings his culinary prowess to Dubai with La Residence Restaurant & Lounge, opening today in Raffles Dubai.

Frédéric Vardon. Courtesy La Residence Restaurant

La Residence Restaurant & Lounge, which opens today in Raffles Dubai, is the first restaurant outside France for celebrated chef Frédéric Vardon. Vardon is the culinary genius behind the Michelin-starred restaurant Le 39V in Paris (as well as four Zinc brasseries throughout France). We caught up with the French chef this week during his three-day visit to Dubai.

What inspired you to start cooking?

I come from a family of butchers with grandparents who were farmers. I spent most of my holidays with my grandparents, tasting the simple pleasures of the table. I never saw my grandmother purchase anything that we consumed at the dining table. All the vegetables came from her garden. The poultry came from the farm. My grandmother passed on her passion for cooking to me. I have been able to bring this same passion for the product to my cooking with a huge amount of respect for those who actually produce it.

How do you describe your culinary style?

My style of cooking is inspired by the French culinary heritage where I take traditional recipes but deliver them with a contemporary interpretation of the traditional cuisine – a so-called neoclassical kitchen. It’s traditional cuisine made gourmet.

Why did you choose Dubai for your first international restaurant?

I was keen on expanding internationally because I wanted to transmit knowledge and to showcase the art of French living. To seize the opportunity to cook in Dubai was very attractive because it is an extraordinary city. The positive energy that emerges is undoubtedly an attraction for all. It has become a major destination for tourism and business and, above all, food and restaurants.

What can guests expect at La Residence?

It’s a contemporary French brasserie deluxe that perfectly matches my culinary spirit with special attention to comfort, decor and tableware. We want La Residence to be a warm and cozy place to spend any moment of the day, whether it’s lunch, tea or dinner. We will cook as we know how – in the way of 39V Restaurant in Paris. It is all about flavourful, quality and sincere tastes, respecting the seasonality of the produce. French cooking is rich and varied and allows us to include several recipes of meats, fish, seafood and vegetarian items on our menu. We will have a vast choice to satisfy customers, all while respecting the French identity of our establishment.

• La Residence Restaurant & Lounge is on the ground level of Raffles Dubai, with a separate entrance from the hotel. It’s open daily from 7pm to 2am, and will be adding lunch and tea times after Ramadan. For reservations, call 04 396 2211