Patrick O’Connell, a native of Washington, DC, is a self-taught chef who pioneered a refined, regional American cuisine in the Virginia countryside. His alliance with local farmers and artisanal producers was an adaptation born of necessity more than 30 years ago when nothing but milk was delivered to the tiny town of “Little” Washington, VA (pop. 158). Long before the farm to table movement had a name, he began cultivating fruitful relationships with his neighbors — many of whom have a strong connection to the land and a heritage of self sufficiency. The Inn at Little Washington opened in a former garage in 1978 and has evolved from a simple country inn to an international culinary shrine. O’Connell has been referred to as “the Pope of American Cuisine.”
- Favorite place to visit in France, and why?
- Whenever I’m in Paris, I try to visit Place des Vosges which reminds me of a stage set for a 17th century French play. That square always manages to cast a spell over me with its perfect symmetry and wonderfully human scale. I also like to go to the Louvre and see the apartments of Napoleon and dream about re-creating them at The Inn.
- Whenever I’m in Paris, I try to visit Place des Vosges which reminds me of a stage set for a 17th century French play. That square always manages to cast a spell over me with its perfect symmetry and wonderfully human scale. I also like to go to the Louvre and see the apartments of Napoleon and dream about re-creating them at The Inn.
- Favorite place to visit in America, and why?
- George Washington’s Mount Vernon is a gorgeous setting steeped in historical significance. It’s easy to be transported back to the 1700s when you can’t see a trace of modern civilization anywhere around you all the way to the horizon.
- What do you think the French can learn from America?
- Flexibility
- What do you think Americans can learn from the French?
- Sensuality, subtlety and a reverence for traditions — especially those related to food.
- Favorite French film?
- I like Truffaut’s old films especially Jules et Jim.
- Favorite American film?
- The Cook, The Thief, His Wife and Her Lover. And Thelma and Louise.
- Favorite French actor or actress?
- Jeanne Moreau
- Favorite American food?
- Cherry pie
- Favorite French food?
- Chocroute garni
- Most important French figure in history and why?
- Marie Antoinette. She is a symbol of indulgence and decadence in combination with exquisite taste.
- Most influential American figure and why?
- George Washington, the father-figure of our country.
- What is your favorite American luxury?
- Oyster stew
- What is your favorite French extravagance?
- Champagne
- The quality you most admire about the French and Americans?
- Curiosity
- What do you consider your greatest achievement?
- Maintaining my sanity after 40 years in the restaurant business.
- Which talent would you most like to have?
- I really should have learned how to add, subtract, multiply and divide.
- Name three people, dead or alive, who you would most like to have dinner with?
- Albert Einstein, Craig Claiborne and Bette Midler.
- Relative to your field of study, what is the most important tradition to keep alive?
- Striving for excellence every day.
- What is your idea of perfect happiness?
- Cuddling with my dog, Luray, and dozing off together while watching his favorite show –South Park.