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Joël Robuchon, a master chef who shook up the stuffy world of French haute cuisine by wowing palates with the delights of the simple mashed potato and giving diners a peek at the kitchen, has died. He was 73.

A spokeswoman for Robuchon confirmed his death, with French TV station BFM and newspaper Le Figaro reporting that he died in Geneva on Monday from cancer, citing his entourage.

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Robucon’s culinary concepts were exported around the world, notably with the controversial establishment of l’Atelier Joël Robuchon at the Casino de Montréal. Loto-Québec was roasted in Montreal’s close-knit restaurant and foodie scene over the decision to sign up a foreigner instead of opting for a homegrown star.

Robuchon told the Montreal Gazette last year that before he was approached by Loto-Québec, he didn’t know much about Montreal’s cuisine except through reputation.

Photo by Sandra Nowlan / Special to The Gazette

“I have tasted cheeses here that are better than anything I have eaten in France,” he said then. “Really, I am overwhelmed, awestruck, by all these local ingredients: cheeses and crabe des neiges, venison and lamb from small producers. It’s rare to see so much, of such exceptional quality.”

Robuchon made his debut in Paris in the 1970s. He won numerous awards, including 32 Michelin stars.

Presse Canadienne contributed to this report.