Greek chef Argiro Barbarigou recently shared a moment that felt as warm and heartfelt as the dishes she serves—one that beautifully bridged two worlds driven by creativity: gastronomy and fashion. In a social media post that quickly caught attention, the beloved chef revealed her meeting with one of the most iconic designers of our time, Jean Paul Gaultier. It wasn’t a fleeting encounter or a chance meeting, but the result of a friendship that has quietly grown over the years.
The legendary designer paid a visit to Barbarigou’s restaurant in the heart of Athens, a place that has long stood as a landmark of Greek cuisine and hospitality. Far from runways and the glare of international fashion shows, Jean Paul Gaultier appeared exactly as those close to him know him to be: genuine, approachable, and deeply connected to Greek culture.
Clearly moved, Argiro Barbarigou spoke from the heart about the man behind the fashion myth, revealing that she has known him for nearly 20 years. A frequent guest at her restaurant, he has become a true and devoted friend of Greek flavors.
In her Instagram post, Argiro shared a photo of the two of them, accompanied by a caption full of admiration:
“Here with my beloved Jean Paul, wearing his collectible JPGaultier top. I see his true gaze and my soul feels happy—he always has a smile and the warmest words. The most talented, sweet, kind, grounded and generous person in the world, and I’m still not saying enough. A true star. I simply adore him and I’m so happy he loves Greece and Greek cuisine so much. In the 20 years I’ve known him, he goes crazy for grouper fricassee, octopus with short pasta, chickpeas, dolmades! He eats, craves and enjoys Greek food like a traditional Greek.”
Her words paint a portrait of Jean Paul Gaultier far removed from stereotypes: a man of genuine kindness, warmth and deep appreciation for the Greek way of life. While he has always been one of fashion’s most daring and unconventional designers, in everyday life he seems to choose simplicity, flavor and togetherness—values that lie at the heart of Greek cuisine.
