Monte-Carlo recently marked a significant milestone with the fifth anniversary of the Festival des Étoilés. Held on November 29, this esteemed event attracted an elite gathering, including H.S.H. Prince Albert II and members of the Princely Family. More than 250 guests indulged in a culinary journey celebrating haute gastronomy, live performances, and Monégasque culture.
Festival des Étoilés: A Gastronomic Powerhouse
Over five years, Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer (SBM) has positioned itself as a global culinary leader. The resort now boasts ten Michelin stars, making it the most Michelin-starred resort worldwide. The Festival des Étoilés serves as a highlight of this culinary journey, offering a unique platform for collaboration among international chefs.
Exceptional Culinary Partnerships
The festival featured remarkable culinary partnerships throughout its five-month duration. Participating chefs included:
- Dominique Lory with Pierre Gagnaire at Le Grill.
- Alain Ducasse and Emmanuel Pilon with Albert Adrià at Le Louis XV.
- Yannick Alléno and Davide Oldani at Pavyllon Monte-Carlo.
- Marcel Ravin with Anne-Sophie Pic at Blue Bay.
New Michelin-starred venues L’Abysse Monte-Carlo and Elsa added depth to the offerings this year.
A Gala of Gastronomic Spectacle
The event reached its crescendo with a gala dinner that elevated cooking to an art form. Chefs like Alain Ducasse and Yannick Alléno showcased their talents at a giant open kitchen set in front of the guests, transforming the atmosphere into an immersive experience.
Guests enjoyed a seven-course dinner featuring:
- Mediterranean seafood.
- Japanese-inspired dishes.
- Vegetarian creations.
- Classically rich French entrees.
The evening concluded with an impressive Saint-Honoré XXL dessert by pastry chef Cédric Grolet, eliciting gasps of delight.
A Multisensory Experience
As the evening unfolded, guests were treated to performances by a children’s choir and contemporary dancers, creating a vibrant atmosphere. The gala was elegantly hosted by Sophie Menut-Yovanovitch and Jennifer Galap, who added warmth to the evening’s festivities.
A Vision for the Future
SBM President and CEO Stéphane Valeri reflected on the significance of the occasion. He emphasized the importance of gastronomy as a medium for connection and emotion, highlighting the growth from seven to ten Michelin stars.
Looking ahead, the festival is set to continue evolving, with the sixth edition already in planning for 2026. Monte-Carlo’s reputation as a culinary destination continues to flourish.
The Festival des Étoilés has undoubtedly established itself as a defining event in the international gastronomic calendar. Its continued success promises an exciting future for both the festival and the culinary landscape of Monte-Carlo.
