French Michelin-Starred-Chef Irwin Durand Launches His Eponymous Restaurant “IRWIN” in Paris

Chef Irwin Durand Launches His Eponymous Restaurant “IRWIN” in Paris

Where childhood memories and culinary innovation meet on the plate

French Michelin-starred-chef Irwin Durand, known for his culinary artistry, innovation, and bold approach to fine dining, is set to open his first address, a restaurant bearing his name, IRWIN, in mid-April.

Having honed his skills in the kitchens of some of France’s most famous chefs and earned Michelin stars at both Alan Geaam and Le Chiberta, Durand is embarking on a new chapter to create a restaurant that is a true reflection of his identity, “This project is a chance to sharemy version of French gastronomy: a cuisine that plays with flavor, texture, and memory, where each dish celebrates the richness of our land” says Durand.

Located at 22 Rue de Cambacérès, in the chic 8th arrondissement of Paris, IRWIN is poised to make a splash. The restaurant seamlessly blends contemporary design with intimate touches rooted in the chef’s personal journey.

“It’s a tribute to my great-grandmother Irma Durand, a force of nature who taught me perseverance. Through this project, I celebrate the woman who was a constant source of inspiration, possessed with the same passion and tenacity she passed to me” shares Durand.

A culinary adventure between past and present

At IRWIN, Chef Durand and Executive Chef Camille Larquemin invite guests to journey through an ever-evolving menu that blends nostalgia with innovation. A reflection of the seasons, highlighting carefully selected local ingredients and modern culinary techniques, “My cuisine is a journey through memories, a return to the sensations of childhood, but executed with the precision and daring of a Michelin-starred chef. I want each dish to be a surprise, a small moment of wonder, while staying true to the simplicity of those first tastes” explains the Chef.

The restaurant will offer several tasting menus for lunch and dinner:

● Lunch: 3, 5, or 7 courses.
● Dinner: 5, 7, or 9 courses.

Each menu is an exploration of French regional cuisine with an emphasis on balance and aesthetics, using contrasting textures and unique flavour pairings to celebrate the natural bounty of France.

Where dining becomes an experience

Beyond the plate, IRWIN offers an immersive experience in two distinct dining areas. The main dining room is a sleek, intimate space, seating just 22 guests in an elegant setting where the food takes center stage. For diners seeking something even more exclusive, a chef’s table for 8 to 10 guests in full view of the open kitchen offers a true behind-the-scenes experience of culinary magic in the making.

Designed by JOD Architecture (Jérome-Olivier Delb), the interiors play with light and shadow to create a quiet, contemplative ambiance. High-end materials, featuring unique marble work by Wilfried Rouissi, add a refined touch, reinforcing the venue’s intimate yet modern feel.

A chef who leads with heart

Irwin Durand is known for both his technical prowess and his leadership style. Revered for his supportive, human-centered approach, Durand fosters a collaborative kitchen environment where each team member has room to grow and shine.

“A successful brigade is built on solidarity and the transmission of knowledge, just as I’ve learned from my mentors,” he says.

From passion to world-renowned Michelin stardom

Born in the Paris suburbs, Durand moved to the Ardèche at the age of 10, where he forged a deep connection to nature and regional products. His love for food started at the age of 14, when he entered a hospitality school, followed by an apprenticeship at the prestigious Saint
Ruff restaurant in Valence. He quickly worked his way up through a succession of prestigious restaurants, learning crucial skills along the way:

● Ludovic Puzenat at Hôtel Le Saint-Paul (1 Michelin star), he learned the foundations of Michelin-level cooking.
● Les Maisons Baumanière (Oustau de Baumanière 2 Michelin stars, La Cabro d’Or 1 Michelin star, and Le Strato 2 Michelin stars), he honed his technique and a passion for regional cuisine.
● Joël Robuchon Paris (2 Michelin stars), a decisive stage when he sharpened his skills in a rigorous, structured environment.
● Bernard Loiseau in Saulieu (3 Michelin stars), he deepened his understanding of terroir-based cuisine.
● Le Bien-Aimé in Paris, where he earned the title of Young Chef of the Year 2016.
● Yannick Alléno at Pavillon Ledoyen (3 Michelin stars), he developed a bold, modern approach to cooking.
● Alan Geaam, he contributed to the restaurant’s Michelin star, awarded just six months after its opening.
● Guy Savoy at La Monnaie de Paris (3 Michelin stars), he helped solidify the restaurant’s place among the world’s best.
● Le Chiberta (1 Michelin star), Durand has been the head chef here since 2020, offering a high-flavor, emotional cuisine.

Now, at just 35 years old, Irwin Durand stands among the most promising chefs of his generation, admired for his technical mastery, creativity, and unwavering pursuit of excellence.

IRWIN will open its doors in mid-April.

IRWIN

22 Rue Cambacérès, 75008 Paris, France

Open Monday to Friday, for lunch and dinner

Media release and image provided by: Camille Dupuy PR. Photo credit Guillaume Paret.