What to say about Claude Troisgros? Member of influential French gastronomic dynasty, he moved to Brazil in 1979 and has since achieved national treasure status here. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting him on several occasions, and even dined with him at Chez Claude, and I am delighted to report that he’s a thoroughly lovely guy (by no mean a given in chef circles!).
Chez Claude is laid back, with an open kitchen in the centre of the room so you can watch the chefs at work. The food is spectacular with a mix of styles, some intricate others leaning towards comforting – several dishes on the menu hark back to items that Claude’s mother cooked for him when he was young. Menus change of course, but I dearly hope the Ovo & Caviar Clarisse stays forever.
This is one of my favourite restaurants in Rio and a safe bet (see also CT Boucherie).
Address: Rua Conde de Bernadotte, 26 – Leblon (map link)
