From 2005 to 2009, Chef Elena served as head chef of the prestigious Hotel Le Château des Crayères, which is celebrated as the Champagne region’s finest culinary experience.  In 2006, Chef Elena was recognized for his outstanding work, and was named Best Chef of the Year by both the Champérard and Pudlowski guides.  Prior to arriving at Hotel Le Château des Crayères, Chef Elena was the Executive Chef at Alain Ducasse at The Essex House, during which time the restaurant was awarded four stars by The New York Times and voted Best New Restaurant by The James Beard Foundation in 2001.

Didier Elena was born in Monaco and initially trained and coached by famous mentors such as Paul Bocuse and Alain Ducasse.