Gavin Kaysen Reflects on His Friendship with Paul Bocuse and Coaching Team USA Artwork

The meez Podcast

Josh Sharkey (Entrepreneur, professional chef, and founder/CEO of meez, the culinaryOS for food professionals) interviews world class entrepreneurs in the food space that are shifting the paradigm of how we innovate and operate in our industry.

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Gavin Kaysen Reflects on His Friendship with Paul Bocuse and Coaching Team USA

July 01, 2025 • Josh Sharkey • Episode 102

#102.
In this episode, Josh sits down with Gavin Kaysen—the award-winning chef and founder of Soigné Hospitality Group in Minneapolis.

Gavin reflects on his upbringing, his mentors like Daniel Boulud and Thomas Keller, and how their examples—especially around discipline and curiosity—shaped not only his cooking but his approach to business and people.

Whether it’s developing young talent, opening new concepts, or coaching Team USA at the Bocuse d’Or, Gavin shares what drives him: a deep belief in hospitality, personal growth, and giving back.

Listeners get an inside look at the stories behind Kaysen’s renowned restaurants, including Spoon and Stable, Demi, and Mara, and the meaning behind names like Bellecour. Gavin also shares touching moments about his relationship with the late Paul Bocuse, including the story of why Bocuse flew the American flag in front of his restaurant.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a Gavin Kaysen conversation without a mention of spoons—yes, the ones he “borrows” from restaurants as mementos of meals that moved him.