DEEP-ROOTED PASSION

Iconic French chef Alain Passard stakes reputation on vegan menu

- MARINE DO VALE

Celebrated French chef Alain Passard has made history once again. The 68-year-old has become the first three-Michelin starred chef in France to switch to an entirely plant-based menu, opening a new chapter in the world of luxury dining.

Since July 21, Passard has stopped serving meat, fish, dairy products and eggs at L'Arpege, his restaurant in the French capital's chic seventh district that he has run for nearly 40 years. The only exception is honey that comes from the restaurateur's own beehives.

Passard said the switch had been in the pipeline for a year.

"There's light in this cuisine," he said. "There are taste sensations that I've never experienced anywhere else."

L'Arpege used to be known as one of the leading rotisseries in Paris. It earned three Michelin stars in 1996, and has held the distinction ever since.