Michelin-starred chef and rugby fan Michel Roux Jr. introduces a different kind of crunch…
Rugby World: ‘What was the first game you ever watched or played?
Michelle Lu Jr.: “I’m 64 years old, so I’m going back in history here! I think my first rugby memory is playing rugby as a child. I played rugby at school and at Emanuel in Battersea throughout my teenage years. I was useless at football, so I played rugby and cross-country in the winter and cricket in the summer. Then I watch the game and I think it would have been Harlequins because I grew up in South London. So they were my local team and I always followed them.”
Who was your first rugby hero?
“Sir Blanco, there is no doubt about it. It was beautiful to watch him play, he seemed to be sliding rather than running. He was a legend of a man and a legend of a player – a complete player. It was always special to watch him play for France. They were a nation of talent. We had no idea which French team would show up that day, but they came out alive.
“They can easily get upset and overheated, especially against England in ‘Le Crunch’. But then there will be Serge Blanco just gliding by. It was fascinating. I was lucky enough to meet Serge at The Stoop a while ago. It was a European Cup match and I was in awe of him. “I didn’t know what to say, I was speechless.”
Do you have a game day routine?
“Strangely enough, I always go to the club shop. I love going there and seeing what new things I can pick out. I have about 4 different Quins scarves, numerous hats, gloves, keychains, etc. I can’t help myself!
Who is the Quins cult hero?
“I have always admired Chris Robshaw. There’s a bar named after him because he’s an absolute legend. He received a lot of praise from people who didn’t understand rugby, but he was a phenomenal player for Quins. He is a true gentleman off the field, a great ambassador for the game and one of the best people I have ever seen in Stoop. “I also have a soft spot for the ultimate character, Nick Easter.”
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Do you ever struggle with loyalty when France play England?
“Oh yes! I was born and raised in London, but my parents are French, so it was difficult. I will support England until the moment they face France. I have French blood in my veins. It’s a difficult watch and it brings tears to your eyes, but if you watch France play, their style of rugby is truly beautiful.
Where is your favorite place to watch a game?
“Biarritz is good. I went there with Quins. It’s a great city for a weekend getaway to enjoy rugby and culture. I was there when the weather was bad and unfortunately the stadium was flooded, and it is the capital of French rugby.
Who would you like to see play against Queens or France?
Roux Jr. believes England full-back Jason Robinson is one of the greats. (Laurent Baheux/Corbis/VCG via Getty Images)
“Billy Wiz, Jason Robinson! Truly an electric foot. I remember him switching from rugby league and straight away being amazing. He can win the game on his own. Imagine him wearing the same French shirt as Frédéric Michalak!”
Who is your favorite player right now?
“Antoine Dupont, what should I say? He took France by storm and brought more people into the sport. He is an essential character for rugby, especially after the Olympics. Young people can look up to him as an ambassador for sport and France.
If you were in the kitchen of your local club, what would you prepare for a post-match meal?
“Well, this time of year you might be craving a hearty, slow-cooked stew with a delicious sauce. “Beef cheek meat marinated in red wine and slow-cooked for about 7 hours with some garlic potatoes and a glass of red wine.”
Where is the strangest place you’ve seen a rugby player?
Who knew Serge Betsen was a prankster? (MARTIN BUREAU/AFP, Getty Images)
“Here’s one for you. So a few years ago I was at Lyon Airport with my wife. We had just landed and I was standing in line to catch a taxi. Next thing I knew, I was rugby tackled and gently placed on the floor. My wife screamed, and I screamed and turned to see Serge Betsen’s big, smiling face. It must have seemed very strange to onlookers. Then he came to get me and we hugged!”
Which of France’s top 14 teams offers the best away weekend of rugby and food?
“It’s Lyon without hesitation. It’s a beautiful city, everything is within walking distance, the food is exceptional and the rugby is pretty good. To me, Lyon is the center of French gastronomy. There are also great wine bars and good markets with food.
“If you’re there, try the quenelle with fish or meat cream. They serve delicious pike quenelles, which can be considered a bit rich, but Lyonnaise dishes are all about indulgence. Paul Bocuse Market also sells great oysters and offal. “If that’s what you like!”
Did you get a souvenir?
“Aside from my Harlequins scarf, I have a few France and England shirts. I received the signature of the great Martin Johnson as a token of my gratitude. He hosted his retirement party at my old restaurant, Le Gavroche.”
You can invite three rugby guests to your dinner party. Who would you like to invite?
“Sergegio Blanco, of course. Then Brian Moore and Dan Biggar, who speak perfect French and can be a go-between for Serge and Brian!”
This article about Michel Roux Jr. first appeared in the January 2023 issue of Rugby World.
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