Jean Banchet

Jean Banchet was a highly influential French American chef who helped transform Chicago into a well-regarded fine dining destination, with the opening of Le Français in Wheeling, Illinois.  Born in Roanne, France, Chef Banchet’s culinary endeavors began at the age of 14 when he met Pierre and Jean Troigros, who served as mentors to the young chef as he navigated different kitchens throughout Europe.  During his time as executive chef at the Sporting Club casino in Knightsbridge, London Chef Jean met both his wife Doris (who also worked in the restaurant) and an executive of the Playboy Club in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin who convinced him to come to this country to act as the head chef of their establishment. With his desire to open his own restaurant and Doris’s encouragement that “people who dine in French restaurants live in the suburbs”, Le Français was opened in 1973 just outside of Chicago.  His innovative French dishes like the salmon with sorrel sauce and the lobster tail with lobster mousse baked in puff pastry were inspired by his mentors, including the Troigros brothers and Paul Bocuse. Chef Banchet's approach to French cuisine had a significant influence on the Chicago culinary scene, helping to establish the city as a major food destination. Known for his impeccable technique and elegant dishes, Chef Banchet inspired generations of chefs and sparked a vibrant dining scene in the Chicago region that continues to this day.