Jihyun Kim, 2027 Young Talent Award, Paris Île-de-France

Under the canopy of the Orangerie d'Auteuil, Gault&Millau unveiled its list of top restaurants in the Île-de-France region before an audience of culinary professionals gathered for the occasion. The 2027 Young Talent Award was presented to Jihyun Kim, chef atÉbène in Paris (2 toques), by Freddy Guillemot, representing Rougî. This is a recognition for this young chef from South Korea, whose restaurant earned 2 toques in the guide right from the start.

A career forged alongside the greatest

After arriving in France to study the language at the Catholic University of Lyon, Jihyun Kim went on to the Paul Bocuse Institute, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in restaurant management while training at Les Saisons, the school’s restaurant. She went on to gain experience working with Christian Têtedoie and then Bertrand Grébaut at Septime, before settling permanently in Paris in 2018 to join Alain Passard’s kitchen at L’Arpège. Starting as a commis chef, she rose to sous chef in less than a year and spent six years working alongside Alain Passard.

Ébène: A Joint Venture

It was atL’Arpège that Jihyun Kim met Simon Plantrou, who was then working in the front of the house underAlain Passard. In 2024, the couple set out to open their own restaurant, supported by the Gault&Millau Young Talents Grant. Ébène finally opened its doors in September 2025 at 8 Rue Falguière in Paris, in the former Vitis location. In the kitchen, the chef creates a minimalist, plant-forward menu, while Simon Plantrou orchestrates precise service in the dining room.

Check out the 2027 Gault&Millau Paris Île-de-France Guide, available in bookstores on Thursday, September 10.