Jean Joho Discusses His Christmas Spent in Alsace

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Embrace the tantalizing tale of Chef Jean Joho, a culinary titan whose delectable personal cuisine has left an indelible mark on the world. Joho's enchanting journey in the culinary realm began humbly as a six-year-old, peeling veggies in his aunt's kitchen in Barr, a charming Alsatian village. His formal training began as a 13-year-old apprentice for Paul Haeberlin of L'Auberge de L'Ill, facilitating his rise to the 35-person command staff of a two-star Michelin restaurant by the age of 23.

Joho's international success story started on the swanky 40th floor of the Chicago Stock Exchange, with Everest, which stands tall as one of the world's premier dining rooms. Recently, Everest and Chef Joho's team received rave reviews, earning four stars from Phil Vettel in Chicago Tribune and a well-deserved star in the Michelin guide. Today, the Chef's establishments in Chicago (Everest, Studio Paris), Boston (Brasserie JO), and Las Vegas (Eiffel Tower Restaurant) are setting new standards for culinary experiences and raking in accolades in their path. Joho is also a partner in several Lettuce Entertain You concepts, including Chicago's Nacional 27 and M Burger. He was recently bestowed the 'Restaurateur of the Year' title by Gayot.

Now, let's delve briefly into Joho's childhood in Alsace, an intriguing region with its unique identity, language, cuisine, history, and architecture. A yarn spun with the Chef revealed his lively household, where dining together was a tradition passed down through generations. At the tender age of six, Joho gleamed his first cooking lessons in his aunt's restaurant, learning to cook the Jewish-French cuisine so synonymous with Alsace. His summers were spent honing his skills in professional kitchens and perfecting the arts of pastry, cheese, and wine while attending school.

Alsace is renowned for its Christmastime traditions, an enchanting spectacle reminiscent of a fairy tale. Here, Chef Joho shared some of his favorite holiday customs:

Decorating Christmas Trees: The tradition of adorning trees dates back to the 1600s in Strasbourg. Then, people would adorn trees with apples or local fruits.
Saint Nicholas Day: The 6th of December marks the start of the Christmas season with the celebration of Saint Nicholas. Stories are shared, and gingerbread cookies and brioche shaped like the saint are baked.

Prominent landmarks in Alsace include the historical castles, hilltop villages, the Vosges mountain range, the Alsace Wine Route, and the region's exquisite cuisine. But one of Alsace's most impressive claims to fame is the captivating Christmas traditions celebrated across the region.

For gastronomes craving Chef Joho's interpretations of Alsatian classics, mark your calendars! Everest in Chicago will be serving a festive holiday menu inspired by Alsace from December 13th to the 29th.

Everest's Alsace Les Préludes menu:

Sautéed New York State Foie Gras Heritage Apple, Wild Huckleberry
Matelote of Pike, Riesling Papa Jo Egg Noodles
Roasted Goose Breast Braised Red Cabbage and Chestnut Poppyseed, Wassertriwella
Gelée au Kirsch, Marc de Gewurtztraminer Galcée
New Wave Spice Cake Soufflé Marinated Fruits Vieille Prune Ice Cream Barawecka Style

A truly magical Christmas awaits in Alsace. So, pack your bags for an enchanting holiday adventure!

Reservations for Christmas Eve in Alsace at Everest can be made by calling the restaurant at 312-663-8920.

Chef Jean Joho, a renowned figure in global cuisines, has been influenced by his roots in Alsace, a region known for its unique cuisine and culture.
Joho's travels have led him to establish culinary establishments not just in Chicago, but also in Boston and Las Vegas, setting new standards for food-and-drink experiences.
The entertainment industry, including celebrities, has recognized Joho's contributions to the culinary world, with Gayot awarding him the 'Restaurateur of the Year' title.
As we approach the festive season, Everest in Chicago will showcase Joho's interpretation of Alsatian classics through an Alsace Les Préludes menu, offering a taste of global cuisines right in entertainment-rich Chicago.
The Alsace region, with its charming Christmas traditions, exquisite cuisine, and captivating landscapes, offers a perfect destination for those seeking a magical family vacation steeped in culinary lifestyle and history.
For those in Chicago looking to experience a taste of Alsace this holiday season, reservations for Christmas Eve at Everest can be made by contacting the restaurant directly.