Chef at Biarritz's Michelin-starred restaurant resigns following reported hazing incident

A Michelin star chef, Aurélien Largeau, has resigned from his position at the renowned Hôtel du Palais in Biarritz, France, following reports of a kitchen hand being tied up naked for hours during an initiation. The incident, which occurred in early December, is currently under preliminary investigation for charges of sexual assault and violence. Although no formal complaint has been made, it is alleged that footage of the incident was shared on social media but has since been removed. The hotel management company, Hyatt, stated that appropriate action has been taken in response to the incident, without providing further details. According to Sud Ouest, a regional newspaper, the young kitchen aide was reportedly tied to a chair while naked and surrounded by others. Chef Aurélien Largeau, however, denies the allegations and describes them as a "monstrous attack" on his reputation. Hyatt, in a statement to the BBC, affirmed that an investigation was immediately launched by the hotel management team upon learning of the allegations and imagery related to the incident. The company emphasized that the incident in question does not align with their values, and appropriate decisions have been made. They also stated that the safety, well-being, and security of their colleagues, guests, and partners are always their top priorities. Aurélien Largeau ran the five-star restaurant, La Table d'Aurélien Largeau, at the Hôtel du Palais, which is located on Biarritz's famous Atlantic beach. The restaurant offers diners a unique and sophisticated dining experience with its contemporary French cuisine.