It is difficult to present the Louis XV without mentioning Alain Ducasse. You need a raft of superlatives to describe his impact. This native of Orthez (in southwest France) with an enduring love for the Mediterranean is a brilliant chef and businessman. Now a citizen of Monaco, he also heads up an empire of over 30 establishments with a presence on every continent. He was just 33 years old when he was awarded three stars at the Louis XV after reaching an astonishing standard. His famous vegetable-based "Jardins de Provence" set menu, which launched here in Monaco on 27 May 1987, has been one of the touchstones of French gastronomy for the last 30 years. Here, Alain Ducasse's signature style is brought to life by his loyal right-hand man, Emmanuel Pilon, in cuisine that masterfully celebrates the essence of the ingredients and the Mediterranean.