Olympe: Une Cuisinère Libre

In the male-dominated world of nouvelle cuisine in the 1970s, a Parisian restaurant led by an untrained, self-taught woman became an unexpected culinary phenomenon. Dominique “Olympe” Versini, a name now etched in French gastronomic history, transformed her passion for cooking into a movement that captivated critics, chefs, and diners alike.

Originally meant to be a clothing shop, the Restaurant d’Olympe was born out of necessity—and Olympe’s love for the kitchen. It didn’t take long for her creativity and authenticity to attract the attention of the Gault et Millau guide, turning her establishment into a sensation and earning her a place of honor among France’s culinary elite.

This biography-meets-cookbook, written by journalist Anne Ettore, offers an intimate look at Olympe’s journey—from her unexpected rise to fame to her personal struggles and reinventions. It’s a tribute to a pioneering chef who redefined what was possible for women in French cuisine and later helped shape the bistronomy movement, a return to accessible, high-quality dining.

With stunning photography and thoughtful storytelling, this book captures both the casual elegance of Olympe’s cuisine and the bold determination of her character.

Hardcover. Color photographs throughout. In French.