Photo Credit: Benoit
New York City’s quintessential French bistro, Benoit, by world renowned chef Alain Ducasse appointed Lucile Plaza as chef de cuisine in 2021. Today, Plaza heads the restaurant’s culinary team helmed by executive chef Alberto Marcolongo.
Growing up in the suburbs of East Paris, Plaza found inspiration in the cuisines and cultures of her dual French and Spanish heritage. She pursued a formal culinary education at Ecole Hoteliere de PARIS – CFA Mederic.
By the age of 17, Plaza was working her way up the ranks in some of Paris’ most prestigious Michelin starred kitchens developing her technique. Searching for new challenges in and unfamiliar city, Lucile moved to New York in 2014, and was hired as sous chef at Benoit in Midtown Manhattan where she worked for nearly three and a half years.
In January 19, Plaza set her sights on new opportunities at NYC’s French-American brasserie, Le Coq Rico where she served as the restaurant’s executive chef. At Le Coq Rico, Plaza honored the cuisine she loves by creating thoughtful French fare with seasonality in mind.
Lucile Plaza’s many culinary achievements brought her significant national and international recognition throughout her career.
“It’s a dream to be creating the highest caliber of French cuisine under the Alain Ducasse seal,” says Plaza. “Many of these dishes take me back to being a young girl in East Paris with lofty culinary dreams. It’s now an honor to give our guests a glimpse of that French magic and nostalgia, and alongside Benoit’s passionate family of chefs dedicated to serving our very best.”
Benoit New York is a contemporary French bistro by world-renowned chef Alain Ducasse, located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. Led by executive chef Alberto Marcolongo, Benoit delivers a quintessential Parisian bistro experience with a twist. The restaurant defines authenticity through its inspired French fare, expert culinary techniques and first-class hospitality. In addition, the wine bar’s team of sommeliers sheds light on a selection of varietals from France and the United States. Innovative offerings include an extensive wine by the glass list as well as treasure from prestigious producers and dessert pairings. The space was designed in collaboration with Dekar Design, reimagining Parisian cafes to be more comfortable and residential, yet modern.
Photos – credit: Benoit
Benoit New York
60 West 55th street
New York, NY 10019
Mon. – Wed.: 12-3 p.m. + 5:30-9:15 p.m.
Thurs. – Sat.: 12-3 p.m. + 5:30-9:45 p.m.
Sun.: 12-3 p.m. + 5:30-9 p.m.
benoitny.com | 646-943-7373| @benoitny
