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Introducing Our Accomplished Chef, Gilles Azur
Gilles Arzur has been named Executive Chef at Café des Architectes at the Sofitel Chicago
Water Tower. With over 24 years of experience to Café des Architectes, Chef Arzur shares
his passion with guests by bringing an infusion of creative flavors to contemporary dishes.
A native of Brittany, France, Arzur's desire to become a chef was inspired at the early age
of 16. Growing up in a family of butchers and sailors and often preparing meals for them,
Arzur developed an appreciation of the kitchen, its unique ambiance and aromas; a respect for
ingredients; and an ambition to lead his own "culinary journey with diverse sensory experiences."
Arzur attended school for pastry and bakery in Paris and was trained by such renowned chefs
as Paul Bocuse and Pierre Portier (Meilleur Ouvrier de France). Through his travels to Russia,
Asia, South America and California, he explored new cultures which influenced the enchanting flavors
in his signature cooking. Prior to Café des Architectes, Arzur also served as Executive Chef at the
Sofitel in Montreal; Los Angeles; San Francisco; Moscow, Russia; and Bucharest, Romania.
Dedicated to creativity, and constantly re-inventing himself, Arzur is always "dreaming up" new dishes.
He visualizes tastes and textures, while using ingredients of the moment and fresh produce to develop
new recipes. Baby Octopus Fricasse, with crispy vegetable, ponzu and curry caramel; Butter Poached
Maine Lobster, with pan seared salsify, oyster-mushroom, fig and date chutney and vanilla emulsion
and Pan-Seared Butter Fish, with marinated eggplant, preserved fennel, passion fruit and red beet
jus are just a few signature dishes which Arzur has created for Café des Architectes food connoisseurs.
Arzur has received many awards including 2006 Accor President Award for Mexico, USA, and Canada; and
was selected in 2006 as a member of the culinary team for Montreal "Gala des Chefs". Arzur believes
in leading his team with passion and conviction. Currently residing in Chicago, during his leisure time,
Arzur enjoys the vibrant outdoors with sailing and long distance running and the spirituality of Birkram yoga.
Reinventing The Traditional In French Cuisine
Savor the creative cuisine and chic atmosphere of Sofitel - home to one of the most innovative and appealing restaurants
in downtown Chicago, IL. Discover the finest the Windy City has to offer, and
reserve your table online today.
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