Gault&Millau has named Karen Torosyan of Bozar Restaurant in Brussels as the 2025 Chef of the Year. On Monday, Torosyan described the accolade as “a dream come true”. 

The restaurant received a score of 17.5 out of 20. Torosyan already has two Michelin stars to his name, and can now add the title of Chef of the Year to his list of achievements. 

“This chef of Armenian descent, who fell in love with Belgium, commands respect”

At the award ceremony in the Heizel on Monday, he mentioned the chefs who were present in the room as sources of inspiration. 

During the ceremony, he also invited his wife, daughter and entire team on stage, emphasising that the award was for all of them. 

Cult status

“This chef of Armenian descent, who fell in love with Belgium, commands respect,” said Gault&Millau. “From dishwasher to top chef, every step in his career testifies to his enormous determination.”

“The evolution of his scores and awards in this guide speaks for itself,” said the organisation behind the French restaurant guide. 

“At Bozar, which is gradually achieving cult status, he elevates classics with precision, demonstrating his technical expertise. His cuisine speaks of hard work, passion, and love for the product,” it added.

 

Karen Torosyan during the presentation of the 2025 edition of the Gault&Millau restaurant guide for the Benelux region on 4 November 2024 in Brussels © BELGA PHOTO DIRK WAEM

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