Meet the Team

We caught up with Pernelle, Assistant Manager of Le Grand Contrôle restaurant, to talk immersive dining experiences, regal cuisine, and her favourite dish on the menu. 

Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your role as the Assistant Manager of the Restaurant at Le Grand Contrôle? 

Absolutely!  I’m lucky enough to have had a diverse background in hospitality, with experience in Strasbourg, England and Provence, so I’m excited to pursue my passion here in Versailles, working alongside one of the most renowned chefs in the world.

My leadership style really emphasises positivity, empathy, and trust. I believe in inspiring my team to excel by fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement – I also believe in open communication.

My vision of perfection isn’t about unattainable standards, it’s about setting a clear direction, a shared purpose, and striving together towards continuous improvement. 

How would you describe the dining experience at Le Grand Contrôle? 

At Le Grand Contrôle, dining is an extraordinary blend of culture, history, and gastronomy. It’s like stepping into a royal banquet from centuries past, complete with staff dressed in period attire! We create an elegant and immersive atmosphere for an experience that goes far beyond the food; it’s a journey through time, offering a unique glimpse into the new gastronomy of the Enlightenment era. 

How does Chef Alain Ducasse‘s influence shape the culinary experience for guests? 

Chef Alain Ducasse has masterfully crafted various cuisines and narratives across his establishments. At Le Grand Contrôle, he blends the freshest and finest ingredients with the rich history of Versailles and the Grand Siècle. It’s a bold and modern immersion into the past. It’s truly exceptional. 

How does Le Grand Contrôle celebrate and reinterpret French culinary traditions, particularly those from the time of the Kings? 

We pay homage to historical traditions through impeccable craftsmanship and excellence in service. Our theatricality, this orchestrated choreography, contributes to an immersive gastronomic experience, enhanced by modern menus inspired by the recipes of yesteryear. It’s about blending the best of tradition with a contemporary twist, creating a dining experience that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking. 

Do you have a personal favourite dish at Le Grand Contrôle? 

If I had to pick just one, I’d go for the Normandy scallops paired with lentils from Le Perche. For dessert, it would have to be “La Vanille.” 

Can you tell us about the famous masked ball of Versailles and how you celebrate the event? 

Of course! The Grand Masquerade Ball happens every year, and fully immerses guests in the grandest atmosphere of the French court. It’s a completely unique celebration, with guests and staff are fully dressed in baroque-style costumes and masks.

The Grand Masked Ball is fully inspired by the royal festivities held at the Palace of Versailles in its heyday, but adds a cool contemporary twist with DJs and live performers – it’s a once-in-a-lifetime party.