So, where are some of the world’s top chefs heading for their summer breaks this year? Let’s take a look:
1. Massimo Bottura – Italy
Founder and owner of three-Michelin-starred Osteria Francescana in Modena, Italy, Massimo Bottura is undoubtedly one of the most renowned chefs in the world. For his summer vacation, he’s heading back to his homeland to explore the many culinary treasures that Italy has to offer. From the fresh seafood of the Ligurian coast to the rich, meaty dishes of Emilia-Romagna, Bottura is sure to find plenty of palate-pleasing inspiration.
2. Clare Smyth – Spain
British chef Clare Smyth is the brains behind London’s acclaimed Core restaurant, which has two Michelin stars to its name. For her summer break, she’s heading to San Sebastian in northern Spain, a city that’s widely regarded as one of the best foodie destinations in the world. With its pintxos bars, seafood restaurants, and top-notch Basque cuisine, San Sebastian promises to keep Smyth’s taste buds endlessly entertained.
3. Dominique Crenn – Japan
Dominique Crenn is a force to be reckoned with in the culinary world. The French chef, who now calls San Francisco home, is the first female chef in the United States to be awarded three Michelin stars. For her summer vacation this year, she’s heading to Japan, a country whose cuisine she’s long been fascinated by. From the sushi of Tokyo to the street food of Osaka, Crenn is sure to find plenty of culinary inspiration on her travels.
4. Grant Achatz – United States
Grant Achatz is the chef behind Chicago’s landmark restaurant Alinea, which has won numerous accolades and awards over the years. For his summer vacation, he’s keeping things closer to home and taking a road trip through parts of the United States, including national parks like Zion and Bryce Canyon. While Achatz may not be seeking out gourmet dining experiences on this trip, he’s sure to find plenty of inspiration in the local flavors and ingredients he encounters along the way.
5. René Redzepi – Denmark
René Redzepi made his name as the chef behind Copenhagen’s Noma, which has been named the world’s best restaurant multiple times. For his summer break, he’s staying put in his home country of Denmark, where he plans to explore the many food traditions and innovations that make Danish cuisine so unique. From foraging for wild herbs and berries to visiting artisanal producers, Redzepi is sure to discover plenty of culinary gems close to home.
These are just a few examples of where some of the world’s top chefs are heading for their summer vacations this year. Whether they’re exploring new cuisines, seeking out local ingredients, or simply taking a break from the rigors of the kitchen, one thing is certain: their travels are sure to inspire new dishes and techniques when they return to their kitchens. And for those of us who can’t snag a table at their restaurants, following their culinary journeys on social media can be the next best thing.