Chef Lee Challenges Culinary Contest

By Kwon Mee-yoo

Staff Reporter

Lee Jun-hi, 33, participated in the Bocuse d'Or, one of the top chef competitions in the world, Jan. 27, a first for a Korean. He did not win but had an experience worth more than any award.

``Though I didn't win, I am satisfied to have seen and learned so much at the Bocuse d'Or,'' Lee, a chef of Millennium Hilton Seoul's Mediterranean all-day restaurant Cilantro, told The Korea Times.

Started in 1983 and named after chef Paul Bocuse, Bocuse d'Or is regarded as almost equivalent to the Olympic Games in the culinary world. The biennial world chef championship is a dream for chefs, especially in French cuisine.

Lee has dreamed about taking part in the contest since years ago and was excited when he was able to compete in the continental selections, newly established in 2009 since too many countries wanted to participate. Lee won the tickets to Lyon with his creation of salmon roulade with foie gras in May 2008.

At the final competition, held in Lyon, France, participants had to make meat and fish dishes with designated main ingredients to serve to 14 people in five and half hours. Since the themes are announced prior to the contest, applicants have some time to devise their menu and practice.