Merci Chef! – A Week-long Celebration of French Gastronomy in Athens

Six French chefs will come together in Athens to celebrate the rich food culture of France during a weeklong event organized for the first time by the Embassy of France in Greece and the French Institute of Greece.

Dubbed “Merci Chef!” and held from February 25 to March 1, the French gastronomy festival will highlight and strengthen the culinary and cultural ties between France and Greece.

“While gastronomy is important for the culture and economy of the two countries, it is equally essential for their tourism, attractiveness and cultural heritage,” the French Embassy said in an announcement. “It is a common heritage, which is also highlighted and developed through UNESCO.”

The “Merci Chef!” French gastronomy week will aim to boost the attractiveness of both Greece and France through the promotion of local products and culinary traditions. The festival will provide exclusive dining experiences at various spots in Athens, including hotels and restaurants.

Under the guidance of the French Embassy’s chef, Jean-Marie Hoffmann, French and Greek chefs will cook together highlighting the importance of the cultural exchange between French and Greek cuisine.

Since French gastronomy should be accessible to all, the festival will include cultural and philanthropical events as well as tastings in a program designed to involve schools, tourism education centers, the media and the general public.

The six French chefs participating in the “Merci Chef!” gastronomy week include Johann Chapuis, a Michelin-starred chef; Laëtitia Gaborit, Arnaud Larher, and Eulalie Rus, M.O.F. (Meilleur Ouvrier de France—Best Artisan of France) award-winning chefs; and John Argaud and Marie Simon.

Over thirty partners in the transportation, hospitality, and catering industries will support the event. Hotels participating include the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel, the Academias Hotel and Athens Capital Hotel – MGallery Collection.

It is noted that some events are free while others have an entrance fee or require an invitation. The program is available here (in Greek) for more information.