Since 13 October 2026, Yannick Alléno has had his own wax figure at the Grévin Museum in Paris. The chef, who holds 18 Michelin stars, unveiled his likeness during a ceremony attended by family, friends and professionals from the world of gastronomy.
The Grévin Museum is welcoming a new figure from the world of French cuisine. Yannick Alléno unveiled his wax figure in Paris, surrounded by his family and friends. His induction into the museum recognises his career and the work he has carried out with his teams.
An inauguration surrounded by family and friends
The ceremony opened with an address by Jacques Pessis, a journalist, writer and member of the Académie Grévin, which selects the personalities represented at the museum. Amir Nahai, chief executive of the Potel et Chabot Group and a friend of the chef, then praised his drive and ambition. “It is in your nature to create, build and evolve”, he said. Antoine Arnault also spoke during the event.
Family members, friends, chefs and head waiters attended the unveiling. The wax figure took six months to complete, with artists and craftspeople from Grévin, including sculptor Claus Velte, involved in its creation. Sitting sessions and detailed measurements helped reproduce the chef’s features and posture. His hair was implanted one strand at a time, while particular attention was paid to recreating his eyes.
When the figure was revealed, Yannick Alléno admitted that he was “shocked by the intensity of seeing this work in front of me”. He also described the experience as unsettling. “It is strange to see yourself”, he said. It was an unusual moment for a chef confronted with his own likeness in wax.
Yannick Alléno and a career recognised for excellence
Since March 2026, the chef has held 18 Michelin stars, making him the most Michelin starred chef in the world, according to the press release. He oversees 26 establishments and more than 1,200 employees, with Pavillon Ledoyen in Paris serving as the group’s flagship.
For more than thirty years, he has explored the foundations of French cuisine. His research into sauces, extractions and fermentation has shaped his approach to modern cuisine. In 2021, he also founded Les Chocolats de Yannick Alléno, a chocolate brand reflecting his culinary philosophy.
For the chef, this recognition is not solely an individual achievement. “Above all, it is recognition of the work we have accomplished with my teams”, he explained during our interview. He compared the occasion to “a national honour”, referring to the speeches and the presence of family and friends. “I am savouring this moment as I should”, he added, emphasising how rare such an occasion is.
A wax figure that could inspire future generations
Beyond the recognition itself, Yannick Alléno hopes that his representation will spark curiosity among younger generations. In the press release, he expressed the wish that his figure might encourage some visitors to discover cooking and inspire future vocations. He also shared a message for aspiring professionals.
“Working as a chef opens many different doors when you enter the restaurant industry,” he explained. He encourages young people to consider the wider hospitality sector, including cooking, wine service, pastry and front of house. He also highlighted the opportunities to travel, meet inspiring people and share experiences. “Whatever you choose to do, hospitality is first and foremost about that,” he concluded.
A recognition that extends beyond gastronomy
With this new wax figure, Yannick Alléno joins other prominent figures in French gastronomy at the Grévin Museum, including Anne Sophie Pic and Paul Bocuse. Visitors can now discover his likeness and pose alongside it. His arrival celebrates not only his culinary career but also his commitment to teamwork and the transmission of knowledge.
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