Jean-Luc Petitrenaud: The Passing of a French Gastronomy Icon

Renowned culinary journalist Jean-Luc Petitrenaud, a beloved figure on television and radio, has passed away at the age of 74, surrounded by his loved ones, his children Louise and Antonin Petitrenaud announced. They extended their heartfelt gratitude to the many admirers who supported him throughout his career.

A Lifelong Passion for Gastronomy and French Terroirs

Born on December 5, 1950, in Clermont-Ferrand, Jean-Luc Petitrenaud developed a love for cooking early on, inspired by meals at his grandmother’s home in the Allier region, where he discovered his favorite dish, potato pie.

Trained as a special education teacher, he initially pursued a career in theater and circus arts before finding his true calling in gastronomic journalism. In 1984, he began writing culinary columns on the radio, notably with Radio Suisse Romande, where he became a key voice in the field.

A Legacy of Iconic Culinary Shows

Petitrenaud is best known to the public for his culinary television programs on France 5: “Carte postale gourmande” (2000–2006) and “Les Escapades de Petitrenaud” (2006–2017). These shows showcased his journeys across France to meet chefs, artisans, and producers, celebrating regional flavors and craftsmanship. His curiosity, enthusiasm, and love of fine dining charmed countless viewers every Sunday.

On the radio, he hosted “Le Bistrot du dimanche” on Europe 1 from 1998 to 2014 and contributed gastronomic critiques for L’Express in the early 2000s. Petitrenaud left France 5 in 2017, citing fatigue. The show was briefly continued by Carinne Teyssandier before ending in 2018.

A Prolific Author and a Knight of Gastronomy

Petitrenaud also made a lasting impact through his extensive culinary writing, authoring about 20 books, including La France du casse-croûte, Mes bons coups de fourchette, and Carte postale gourmande. In 2018, he published Les Quatre saisons d’Émile et Marcelle, a novel inspired by the lives of his parents, who had passed away shortly before.

In 2004, he was awarded the title of Knight of the Legion of Honor by Jacques Chirac, a tribute to his significant contribution to French gastronomic culture.

A Farewell Amid a Wave of Tributes

Jean-Luc Petitrenaud’s death comes just three weeks after the passing of Maïté, another iconic figure in televised French gastronomy. Together, they inspired generations with their passion for cooking and their dedication to preserving culinary traditions.

With his lively storytelling, love of meeting people, and ability to share the joy of fine dining, Jean-Luc Petitrenaud leaves behind a rich legacy that celebrates the diversity of French terroirs and the art of good living.