Benny
Rivera
Michael Laiskonis is the Culinary Director for Boiron Americas. Previously the
Executive Pastry Chef Le Bernardin, his work supported the iconic restaurant in
maintaining three stars from the esteemed Michelin Guide and four stars from the
New York Times.
He was awarded ‘Outstanding Pastry Chef’ in 2007 by the James
Beard Foundation, and in 2014, the International Association of Culinary
Professionals tapped him as its ‘Culinary Professional of the Year’.
As an educator, Laiskonis created the Chocolate Lab at New York City’s Institute
of Culinary Education, a unique resource for exploring bean-to-bar chocolate,
confections, and cacao culture.
As a consultant, he has performed in a broad
range of advisory and product development roles with multinational food
companies and independent restaurant groups, in addition to small start-ups and
creative projects. His writing has appeared in numerous publications and several
cookbook anthologies.
Current name of business – Les Vergers Boiron Americas
Current job title – Culinary Director
How many years in the industry – 30 years
Pastry Area of Expertise - Plated Desserts, Chocolate, Ice Cream & Sorbet
Social media handles - @mlaiskonis
Favorite quote/saying – “The more I learn, the more I realize what I don’t know.”