Legendary French chef Joel Robuchon dies at 73, spokeswoman says

Legendary French chef Joel Robuchon has died at age 73, a spokeswoman said Monday. (AP)

Legendary French chef Joel Robuchon has died at age 73, a spokeswoman said Monday.

Robuchon died of cancer in Geneva, according to multiple French media outlets.

Robuchon was named the “Chef of the Century” by the French restaurant guide Gault Millau in 1990 and has mentored the likes of Gordon Ramsay, Eric Ripert and Michael Caines.

He was also named among the best craftsmen in France in 1976 and holder of the most Michelin stars in the world for years.

Robuchon was known for his mashed potato dishes as well as his constant innovation and even playfulness in the kitchen.

He had built an empire around the world and opened restaurants Paris, Monaco, Hong Kong, Las Vegas, Tokyo and Bangkok.

“A very sad day for any of us in our industry and for the millions of other who were touched by this amazing man,” “Bizarre Foods” host Andrew Zimmern wrote in a tweet.

He continued: “When I was 23 I almost crapped myself being part of a team cooking him a birthday dinner in NYC. Over the years he was beyond kind to me.”

The Associated Press contributed to this report.