France – Top Chef

Gilles Goujon

Fontjoncouse - France

cover bio Gilles Goujon

Gilles Goujon is a celebrated French chef known for his creativity, dedication to cooking and ability to "make people happy". His story is one of passion and dedication that led him to be named Meilleur Ouvrier de France and to receive three Michelin stars for his restaurant, l'Auberge du Vieux Puits.

Cover photo credits: @Verri


Gilles Goujon is a world-renowned French chef, born in Bourges on December 10, 1961. His story is that of a man who, overcoming a childhood scarred by the loss of his father and an unschooling youth, found his true vocation in cooking.

After moving to Béziers with his family, he began working as a waiter, soon discovering his talent and passion for gastronomy. At only sixteen years old, he began his apprenticeship at La Compagnie du Midi, earning the title of Best Apprentice in Languedoc-Roussillon. His career quickly took off, passing through some of the most prestigious kitchens in France: Le Ragueneau, here he worked as kitchen commis; Roger Vergé's Le Moulin de Mougins, where he became chef de partie after a few months; Le Petit Nice in Marseille, second to Jean-Paul Passédat; and L'Escale in Carry-le-Rouet, contributing to his obtaining his second Michelin star.

In 1992, at the age of 29, he decided to open his own restaurant, L'Auberge du Vieux Puits, in the small village of Fontjoncouse. At first, he made a name for himself, but with time and constant effort, he became a reference point for lovers of good food.

1996 is a decisive year: he is awarded the title of Meilleur Ouvrier de France, a prestigious recognition that consecrates his talent. Michelin stars followed: the first in 1997, the second in 2001 and the third in 2010. At the same time, Goujon was named Chef of the Year.

His philosophy is simple but refined: to highlight local products and seasonality, with a focus on vegetables, lamb, local cheeses and herbs. Gilles has also been a judge on television shows such as MasterChef and participated in Le combat des régions

L'Auberge du Vieux Puits is more than just a restaurant: it is a place that reflects the passion and commitment of Gilles Goujon, supported by his wife Marie-Christine, who believed in him from the beginning. His story is an example of how dedication and creativity can lead to international success. In 2016, he was named a Knight of the Legion of Honor. Meanwhile, in 2020, Tripadvisor named his eatery the "best gourmet restaurant in the world" based on customer reviews. In addition, Gilles has published several books documenting his vision of cuisine and his career path.

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