Mauro Colagreco is one of the most admired chefs in the world. Born in Argentina to a family of Italian origin, he built his career in France, where his restaurant, Mirazur, located in the picturesque coastal town of Menton, has become a symbol of creativity, harmony, and connection between cultures. For Colagreco, cooking is more than technique – it’s a way of expressing identity and belonging.
The Best Chef: Mauro, you were born in Argentina, but today your restaurant is in France. How did your journey begin, and why France?
Mauro Colagreco: When I was in Argentina, I started cooking there. French cuisine was always one of my goals – to learn the techniques, the basics, the precision. So I decided to move to France to learn French cuisine. For me, France represented an important school – a place to understand the foundations. The Mirazur team is like a family. Here we are between the sea and the mountains, between France and Italy – a real melting pot. This place represents my history: connections, cultures, differences that come together.
The Best Chef: You and your team have made Mirazur one of the most respected restaurants in the world. What’s your next goal?
Mauro Colagreco: For us, it was never about goals like awards or recognition. Those things are a reward for our work, not the reason we do it. I think it’s important for young chefs to understand that – these titles should never be the main focus. When people ask me how to become The Best Chef, I tell them: first, become the best version of yourself. Don’t think about rankings. Make sure your restaurant works – your team, your guests, your finances. Without sustainability, you can’t be the best or even survive. Success must be a consequence of your work, not the goal. And of course, you have to do it with love and passion. This profession demands a lot of both – for what you do and for your guests.
The Best Chef: You now have several projects around the world – in Asia and beyond. How do you approach new cultures and markets?
Mauro Colagreco: We never wanted to copy and paste Mirazur. This place is unique – it cannot be repeated anywhere else. But each restaurant we create follows the same vision and philosophy. Every place should be unique, with its own identity, deeply connected to its surroundings. In Tokyo, for example, we have a restaurant led by a Japanese chef who worked with us for years. I have a lot of admiration for Japanese culture – for the precision, the discipline, the way they do everything seriously and with respect. Whether it’s a chef or a street cleaner, they have this culture of doing things well.
The Best Chef: And what about Argentina – will you ever return?
Mauro Colagreco: Argentina has never left my heart. It’s my country, my family, my friends, my history. It’s a land full of contrasts. I return often – to visit, to see my loved ones. But my home now is here, in France, in Menton. My children were born here. It’s the place where my soul has found peace, where everything came together.
Instagram: @maurocolagreco @restaurantmirazur
Restaurant website: https://www.mirazur.fr/
Restaurant Address: 30 Av. Aristide Briand, 06500 Menton, France
