Richard Ekkebus Receives Chevalier de l’Ordre National du Merite

Richard Ekkebus, the Culinary Director of Amber at The Landmark Mandarin Oriental in Hong Kong, has been awarded the “Chevalier de l’Ordre National du Merite” by the President of the French Republic, Francoise Hollande.

Created in 1963 by President Charles de Gaulle, the Order of Merit recognises distinguished service to France, in both the public and private sectors.

Chef Ekkebus said, “Having worked in France amongst France’s finest chefs I have become a true Francophile and to have received this prestigious presidential recognition for my work as a Dutch French trained chef is humbling. I will wear the blue ribbon with pride, honour and responsibility!”

Richard Ekkebus began his career with an apprenticeship in his native Holland under Michelin-star chefs Hans Snijders and Robert Kranenborg.

He further perfected his art under the tutelage of some of the greatest three-Michelin-star chefs in France, including Pierre Gagnaire, Alain Passard and Guy Savoy.