Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi recently appointed Chef Raphael Kinimo as the hotel’s new Executive Sous Chef. The French national has worked in some of the world’s top kitchens and hotels and brings extensive culinary experience to Vietnam’s most storied hotel. In his new role, Chef Raphael oversees the culinary team, under the helm of Executive Chef Paul Smart at the hotel’s iconic French restaurant, Le Beaulieu. The chef began his career at the three Michelin-starred Paul Bocuse Restaurant in Lyon, before continuing his apprenticeship in other restaurants around France, including Jour de Marche in Lyon. In 2006, he moved to London where he worked under the late Joel Robuchon at l’Atelier de Robuchon in Covent Garden before relocating to Dubai to work as Head Chef for La Maison. Most recently, Chef Raphael worked as Chef de Cuisine at the Ritz Carlton Café in Macau where he specialised in classic French fare with a modern twist and fresh seafood. He loves working with salmon, which features in one of his signature dishes.
