UES Restaurateur Named 'Best In The World'

UPPER EAST SIDE, NY — A celebrity chef with a major presence on the Upper East Side has been named the world's best restaurateur as part of a worldwide contest.

Daniel Boulud was awarded the title of Best Restaurateur of the Year by Les Grandes Tables du Monde, an association of restaurants from around the globe, based in France.

Boulud, who also hails from France, won the title after what judges described as "a unique year," in which he opened Le Pavillon — a seafood restaurant in Midtown's new One Vanderbilt skyscraper — and renovated Daniel, his acclaimed French restaurant on East 65th Street.

Boulud was recognized for "his work in bringing the embodiment of French gastronomy throughout North America," the organization wrote.

Other honorees announced this week include Jenny Yun, a California restaurateur who won for best dining room manager; an Italian who won for best pastry chef, and a French wine expert who was named best sommelier.

First awarded six years ago, the prizes "support the demanding vision of fine dining promoted by the association," according to Les Grandes Tables.

Related coverage: Daniel Restaurant Reopens On UES With Renovated Interior