The seaside flavours of the South of France will be spirited to Sydney when acclaimed 2-Michelin star French chef, Virginie Basselot from iconic Negresco Hotel in Nice, joins us at Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour to headline an exclusive four-course degustation dinner at Atelier by Sofitel for one night only, on Tuesday 26 November at 6:30pm.

With 2 Michelin stars under her belt, Virginie is one of only two female chefs to have been awarded the prestigious life-time title of Best Craftsman in France – Meilleur Ouvrier de France (MOF) – which has earned her the right to wear the coveted blue, red and white collar on her Chef’s jacket.

This hard-won recognition, which has only been awarded to 200 chefs since it started in 1925, is honoured at the highest levels in France. In winning this title, Virginie sits alongside other culinary notables such as Paul Bocuse, Joël Robuchon and Roger Vergé.

Chef Basselot will showcase her finely honed skills alongside Hotel Negresco’s Pastry Chef Fabrice Didier and Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour’s highly experienced culinary team, led by Executive Chef Eric Costille – also a native of the South of France, hailing originally from Cannes. Both Basselot and Costille were coincidentally inspired by working in their father’s restaurants from a very young age.

A fragrant chilled fish soup with shrimp bouquet and rouille will transport you to the Mediterranean seaside, while a tender lamb loin served with artichokes and herbed gnocchi will balance out the menu. An authentic French dessert of apricot, olive oil, and fresh almonds will sit alongside a crisp wheat waffle to complete the tasting experience.

In an entertaining, interview-style format, TV personality and Francophile, Maeve O’Meara, will guide guests through this very special event and help you gain insights from Virginie’s time at Le Negresco. The legendary hotel opened on the French Riviera in 1913 and has welcomed artists, politicians and celebrities through its doors including Salvador Dali, Princess Grace of Monaco, the Beatles and Elton John.

Virginie previously worked at the famed Hôtel de Crillon and then Le Bristol in Paris, and picked up her first Michelin star at the Saint James. She now oversees Le Negresco’s two Michelin-starred restaurant, Le Chantecler, their brasserie La Rotonde, room service and banqueting functions.