Björn Frantzén: Redefining Fine Dining with Global Culinary Excellence

Felix Podcast

Swedish chef Björn Frantzén has etched his name into the annals of culinary history by becoming the first chef in the world to run three restaurants, each awarded three Michelin stars. This remarkable feat places him among the elite in the global gastronomic community, showcasing not only his culinary mastery but also his vision, discipline, and innovation in the art of fine dining.

Learn more at: https://smakjakten.se/bjorn-frantzen-gor-historia-forst-i-varlden-med-tre-trestjarniga-restauranger/

From Football Fields to the Kitchen

Born in 1977 in Solna, a suburb of Stockholm, Frantzén’s path to culinary greatness wasn’t conventional. Before donning the chef’s apron, he was a professional footballer, playing for AIK in the Swedish Premier League from 1992 to 1996. However, his true passion lay not on the football pitch, but in the kitchen. Transitioning to the culinary world, he trained at several prestigious establishments, including the renowned Edsbacka Krog in Sweden, Chez Nico in London, and L'Arpège in Paris. Each of these experiences helped shape his refined palate and exacting standards.

The Rise of Restaurant Frantzén

In 2008, Björn Frantzén opened his flagship restaurant in Stockholm. From the start, the establishment stood out for its unique Nordic-Asian fusion, precision in technique, and commitment to sourcing the finest ingredients. By 2009, it had earned its first Michelin star, followed quickly by a second in 2010. A bold relocation to a larger, more immersive space in 2017 allowed Frantzén to elevate the experience even further. In 2018, the restaurant made history as the first in Sweden to receive three Michelin stars.

At the heart of Frantzén’s success is a culinary philosophy that emphasizes storytelling through food. Each dish is part of a broader narrative, blending Nordic heritage with Asian subtleties, particularly Japanese influences, to create a multi-sensory experience for diners. This approach, paired with theatrical presentation and flawless execution, has earned him global acclaim.

Expanding Globally: Zén and FZN

Not content with dominating the culinary scene in Sweden, Frantzén brought his vision to Singapore in 2018 with the opening of Restaurant Zén. Modeled after his Stockholm concept, Zén delivered a similarly immersive and intimate dining journey. Just three years later, in 2021, Zén earned its own trio of Michelin stars. This affirmed that Frantzén’s philosophy could transcend borders and resonate with international diners.

Continuing his global culinary journey, Frantzén opened FZN in Dubai in 2024. This latest addition to his growing empire brought his distinctive style to the Middle East. In May 2025, FZN was awarded three Michelin stars. This achievement secured his position as the only chef in the world to simultaneously helm three triple-starred Michelin restaurants.