Zagat: a Robuchon revival?

French chef Joâl Robuchon, widely considered to be the best chef in the world before he stopped cooking, is understood to be coming out of retirement.

The Zagat Paris guide 2001, published this week (20 September), said: "Rumours continue that Robuchon will renounce his restive retirement and make a grand comeback with a new Paris restaurant."

The guide also revealed that Taillevent restaurant, which has changed head chefs since the last guide was published, continues to be the most popular restaurant to eat at in the French capital.

Chef Philippe Legendre left Taillevent at the end of last year, after serving 18 years there, to join Parisian hotel the George V (Caterer, 27 January, page 30).

He was replaced at Taillevent by Michel del Burgo, previously of Paris hotel Le Bristol.

Taillevent also holds first place in the guide's top 40 food rankings list.

l Zagat London guide: see page 6