NEW ORLEANS – Antoine’s in New Orleans announced today that Chef Rich Lee will serve as the restaurant’s newest executive chef.
“I am honored to continue the next chapter of Antoine’s legacy as executive chef. To serve at the helm of this legendary restaurant is a dream come true for me, as it would be for any chef,” said Chef Lee. “I am looking forward to continuing Antoine’s tradition of French-Creole fine dining while also working with the team to establish some new features, menu items and specials. We can’t wait to serve our guests in 2019 and beyond.”
Originally from Charlotte, North Carolina, Chef Lee began his career in the U.S. Coast Guard, stationed in Panama City, Florida. After his time in the service, Chef Lee pursued his love of all things culinary, eventually leading him to New Orleans.
“Determining who would assume the position of executive chef of Antoine’s after having our beloved Chef Mike with us for 47 years was a challenging, multi-year process that we did not take lightly,” said Antoine’s fifth generation CEO and Proprietor Rick Blount. “We interviewed incredible chefs and invested much time and effort into ensuring that the person who fills this role is truly up to the task and the right fit for our unique restaurant. Chef Lee impressed me not only with his extensive culinary knowledge, including his passion for French-Creole cuisine, but his understanding of high volume cooking and enhanced customer experience. While he has already mastered our classic dishes, we are excited to see where he will go with the menu.”
Antoine’s Restaurant opened in 1840, and is the oldest French-Creole fine dining restaurant in New Orleans.
The restaurant has 14 dining rooms, with the ability to hold up to 700+ guests at a time.