André Soltner, the influential French chef and owner of the renowned New York restaurant Lutèce, died at the age of 92 in Charlottesville, Virginia. He shaped the city’s restaurant culture with a focus on high-quality ingredients and culinary excellence. Owned by Soltner since 1973, Lutèce was celebrated for its commitment to fine Alsatian cuisine until its closure in 2004. Soltner also served as a mentor to aspiring chefs at the French Culinary Institute, reinforcing his legacy in the culinary community.
Soltner insisted on having Dover sole, Scottish salmon and Mediterranean rouget flown in overnight. He struck deals with farmers to supply shallots and girolle mushrooms.
The combination of quality ingredients, flawless technique, and a modern-minded approach to French style put Lutèce in a class by itself.
Soltner was beloved as a mentor in the chefs' community and through his position as a dean at the French Culinary Institute.
His contributions reshaped New York's restaurant culture, making Lutèce a revered institution in fine dining from 1961 to 2004.
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