Interview with Chef Paul Liebrandt of Crumpet Consulting

This Back to the Archives podcast episode features the legendary Chef Paul Liebrandt, who is now based in New York but was born in London, England.

Ever since he was a teenager, Chef Liebrandt was immersed in the art of cooking in various kitchens. From the Marco Pierre White, Raymond Blanc to Jean-Georges Vongerichten, he has worked alongside these great chefs early on his career in United Kingdom.

After moving to Paris, he met his most influential mentor in Pierre Gagnaire, whose work continues to inspire Chef Liebrandt.

In 1999, his life changed dramatically when he went on a three weeks vacation in New York. He loved it so much that he moved there and became a culinary superstar.

First started working briefly at the Bouley Bakery, he then opened Atlas restaurant at the young age of 24. A string of illustrious eateries followed - including Papillion, Gilt, Corton and The Elm. With each place bringing more accolades like youngest chef ever awarded New York Times' three stars, James Beard Foundation's Best New Restaurant in the United States, New York Magazine's four out of five stars, Time Out New York's six out of six stars, Esquire Magazine's best new restaurant in the USA and more.

A Matter of Taste: Serving Up Paul Liebrandt, the documentary that followed his career over the course of a decade, premiered on HBO on June 13, 2011. Directed by Sally Rowe, it was a cutting-edge project. One that influenced many in the hospitality industry and predicted the future of food-focused content-creation.

In 2015 he founded the Crumpet Management group which consults and manages on multiple projects globally.

In this episode, Chef Liebrandt talked about the history of great chefs, what he thinks of "molecular gastronomy," how he approaches cooking as he matures and more.

Don't miss these Stoveside Stories - and bon appetit!