When the French-born Dominque Crenn was named a “chef to watch” in 2007, and went on to receive a “Best Chef of the Year” award in 2008, we knew that 2009 would be one of her yummiest years yet. The Iron Chef competitor has not disappointed her legion of foodie fans with the seasonal, “New American” cuisine that she serves up at Luce in the InterContinental hotel.

In fact, her menu has had the town talking so loudly that the powers that be at Michelin descended upon her dining room and awarded the restaurant its first coveted star.

Armed with a culinary background that is rooted in French classics, she has shown off her skills for such dignitaries as Al Gore, Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, and the Japanese and Egyptian Ambassadors to France, as well as celebrities like Juliette Binoche, Sidney Poitier, Sharon Stone, and Cindy Lauper.

Her menu has been likened to an 18th century farmer’s table, with an autumn vegetable medley appetizer; roasted in-bone marrow with garlic confit, fried capers gremolata and grilled bread; and Niman Ranch tenderloin slow-cooked with parsnips and brussel sprouts all making grand appearances. And when Merriam-Webster added the word “locavore” to the list of official new words for 2009, they certainly had Chef Crenn in mind, as she is adamant about supporting sustainable agriculture practices and local farmers who offer organic delights. She also incorporates philanthropy into her kitchen practices, donating a portion of the proceeds from particular plates to the San Francisco Meals on Wheels nonprofit organization.

Congratulations to Luce and Chef Crenn.

Via Hotel Chatter