For the 2026 edition, Patrick Jenal is the honorary president of the Frankfurt International Trophy

Patrick Jenal, member of the Association of Jeunes Restaurateur d`Europe becomes honorary president 2026

For over two decades, Patrick Jenal has been championing culinary excellence at the highest level, without forgetting artisanal precision and deep roots in the local terroir. As head chef, kitchen manager and partner of the Kunz Group, he is largely responsible for the culinary identity and strategic development of one of Saarland's most renowned family-run gastronomic businesses.
Born in Saarbrücken, Patrick Jenal trained at the Dollenberg Relais & Châteaux hotel in Bad Peterstal-Griesbach under Martin Herrmann (member of the JRE network). It was there that he acquired a deep knowledge of classic French cuisine and quickly developed a passion for pastry making which remains an essential part of his work today.
In 2001, Patrick Jenal took up residence at the Kunz restaurant in Saint-Wendel-Bliesen. He began his career there as a pastry chef's assistant, but by 2002 he had already been appointed head pastry chef. He continued to climb the ranks, becoming sous chef in 2008 and then, in 2012, head chef alongside Alexander Kunz. Today, this close collaboration is recognised by all the renowned gastronomic guides.
Patrick Jenal describes his own culinary style as Franco-Mediterranean with modern touches and top-quality regional products. His motto, "Never settle for anything less than the best," sums up his quest for excellence. The essential ingredients are clarity of flavours, artisanal perfection and a commitment to simplicity, with the aim of offering a lasting and authentic taste experience.
In addition to his activities as a chef, Patrick Jenal also has entrepreneurial responsibilities. Since November 2021, he has been a partner in the Kunz Group, as well as kitchen manager and authorised signatory for Restaurant Kunz GmbH, Kunz Theatre GmbH and Kunz Manufaktur GmbH. He is also the managing director with power of representation for Kunz Manufaktur GmbH. Today, the Kunz Group comprises a Michelin-starred gourmet restaurant, event and dinner-cabaret offerings, an artisan prepared food manufacturer and an exclusive catering and tasting service.
One of Patrick Jenal's main missions is to ensure the next generation of gastronomic talent. Since the beginning of his career, he has been involved in the German Chefs' Association and has been active for several years in the IHK (German Chamber of Commerce and Industry) in Saar. In particular, he has chaired the assessment committee for chefs and further training in event catering.
The work of Patrick Jenal and the team at Restaurant Kunz have been recognised for several years with both national and international awards, including a Michelin star and excellent ratings in major gastronomic guides.
For Patrick Jenal, gastronomy is a vocation that requires a passion for the hotel industry, respect for traditional craftsmanship and an unwavering commitment to quality.