National Association of Catering Executives (NACE)
Legacy Professional Award
Michel Malecot, owner of The French Gourmet, received NACE Legacy Professional Award.
What does it mean to leave a legacy?
A Legacy may come from one’s character, reputation, and the life they lead – setting an example for others and to guide their futures.
It means putting a stamp on the future by mentoring to generations of professionals in our industry. It means making a lasting impact in the close-knit community of hospitality.
We have a legacy among us friends!
He began his culinary journey in France, England, Germany, and the famous cruise ship “Le Mermoz” prior to coming to the United States in 1972. While working in Miami, Naples, and Manhattan, he learned how to adapt his techniques and expand his recipes to please the American palate. In 1976, he moved to San Diego and continued to fine-tune his culinary skills at Le Côte D’ Azur Restaurant in La Jolla. In 1979 he left Le Côte D’Azur to open a business and there began the legacy!
As I continue to describe this extraordinary individual, it will become clear to you who NACE is honoring this evening. This person is truly one of a kind. Many of us here tonight have been a beneficiary of his teaching, mentoring, advice, and generosity over the 35 years that he has been an outstanding member of, and contributor to NACE.
He has been given the prestigious title of “Knight” awarded to only a handful of individuals in the U.S. for his professional and philanthropic contributions to the culinary profession. His company was awarded Catered Event of the Year at a National NACE Conference in Hawaii which is a testament to the creativity and culinary talents that this person inspires in his team.
This person is someone who has a charitable heart and contributes his talent, resources, and time to the San Diego NACE Chapter and numerous non-profit organizations throughout San Diego.
This award is to honor his passion, commitment, and extraordinary dedication to the event and hospitality industry and most especially to the San Diego Chapter of NACE.
It is my greatest honor to present this prestigious award for Legacy Professional of the Year to Chef Michel Malécot, founder of The French Gourmet and NACE Foundation Fellow.
