Besides critical acclaim via stars, what state recognition signifies mastery of technical craft among French chefs?
Answer
Meilleur Ouvrier de France (MOF) award
The Meilleur Ouvrier de France (MOF) award offers a crucial, alternative dimension for defining culinary excellence beyond the subjective nature of critics’ stars. The MOF signifies a profound mastery of technique that is officially recognized by peers and the state itself. A chef who successfully combines a high Michelin count with the MOF title possesses an almost unassailable combination of high critical acclaim and deep technical respect from the established professional community in France.

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