Chef Dominique Lory, Executive Chef of the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo and its flagship restaurant Le Grill, has been awarded the prestigious Gault&Millau d’Or for the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur and Monaco region. The honour was presented in Nice on March 30 during the annual Gault&Millau Tour ceremony, which recognises leading culinary figures from across the region.
Already recognised by the guide in 2024 with the Techniques of Excellence award, Lory now receives its highest regional distinction, marking a significant milestone in his career. The Gault&Millau d’Or is awarded each year to a chef whose work stands out for its consistency, precision and commitment to excellence — qualities that define Lory’s approach to gastronomy.
His journey with the Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer began more than two decades ago when he joined forces with Alain Ducasse in 2002, working across Paris, Saint-Tropez and Monaco. He later took the helm at Le Louis XV–Alain Ducasse at the Hôtel de Paris, where he further refined his technical expertise and discipline. In 2022, he was appointed Executive Chef of the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, overseeing several of the property’s key culinary venues, including Le Grill, the Salle Empire, the Bar Américain and room service.
Reacting to the award, Lory described it as a moment of immense pride, highlighting the collective effort behind his kitchens and the shared ambition to create emotion through every dish.
The recognition also reflects the broader strength of the Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer’s dining portfolio. Le Grill has retained its three toques and a score of 15.5 out of 20, while the group’s other fine dining establishments have once again secured strong ratings in the 2026 edition of the guide, reinforcing Monaco’s reputation as a leading gastronomic destination.