Nicolas Hoarau nominated for the Gault & Millau Trophy
The maître d’hôtel at the Michelin-starred restaurant Le Jardin des Sens, Nicolas Hoarau, has made a name for himself on the French gastronomic scene by being named a finalist for the 2026 Gault & Millau Trophy in the ‘Maître d’hôtel’ category. He is one of the few professionals in the Occitanie region to receive this recognition.
This nomination highlights the excellence, refinement and precision that characterise his service. Every gesture, every detail and every interaction is designed to transform the meal into a unique experience, where elegance and warmth come together naturally.
The newspaper Le Métropolitain recently mentioned this distinction, highlighting the central role of the restaurant manager in the exceptional quality of the experience offered by the restaurant.
The mark left by Nicolas Hoarau: service conceived as an art form
Since arriving at Jardin des Sens, Nicolas Hoarau has turned service into a true art form. Each table receives subtle attention, each gesture is designed to harmonise the experience and enhance the Michelin-starred cuisine. His mastery, rigour and ability to anticipate guests’ needs transform the meal into a moment suspended in time, where elegance and fluidity come together.
As highlighted by the newspaper Le Métropolitain, his nomination for the Gault & Millau Trophy ‘perfectly illustrates the central role of the maître d’ in the success of a Michelin-starred establishment,’ highlighting his influence on the overall quality of the experience.
Sharing excellence
A symbol of Montpellier refinement, the Hôtel Richer de Belleval stands out as a mecca for French art de vivre. At the heart of this exceptional establishment, Nicolas Hoarau embodies the spirit of service in its noblest form: mastery of technique, kindness and attention to detail that transform a dinner into a memory.
The verdict of the 2026 Gault & Millau Trophy will be announced on 17 November 2025 at the Maison de la Mutualité in Paris, during an evening event bringing together the greatest talents in French gastronomy. In the meantime, Nicolas Hoarau and the team at Le Jardin des Sens are preparing for this eagerly awaited event with humility and passion.
Le Métropolitain recently revisited this appointment, highlighting Nicolas Hoarau’s exemplary career and the excellence of service he embodies at the Hôtel Richer de Belleval. To read more, click here.
