A Taste of Lyon, in the Heart of Ocala

At La Cuisine, we believe food is more than nourishment – it’s an experience, a tradition, and a story shared at the table. That story begins in Lyon, France, the food capital, where co-owner Patrice Perron was born and raised.

From a young age, Patrice was drawn to the kitchen, helping his mother prepare traditional dishes using ingredients from the ‘terroir’ – the land.” recalls Perron. “She loved experimenting,” he remembers. “If a recipe didn’t turn out quite right, she’d just add more butter or cream’” he laughs.

His father loved taking the family to some of Lyon’s most iconic restaurants: La Tour Rose, Paul Bocuse, and Orsi – long before Patrice realized how formative those experiences would become.

Patrice’s journey into professional cuisine took shape at Daniel & Denise, a renowned Lyonnaise restaurant, where he trained under Chef Josef Viola, a recipient of the prestigious Meilleur Ouvrier de France (MOF). Viola, who has been featured on Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown, became Patrice’s mentor and encouraged his dream of bringing authentic French cuisine to America.

La Cuisine: French Soul, Florida Heart

In 2009, Patrice and his wife Elodie moved to Ocala, Florida, where they opened La Cuisine. Their vision was simple: to offer genuine, French-inspired food in a warm, welcoming setting.

From day one, La Cuisine has been a shared labor of love. Patrice helped establish the restaurant’s culinary identity, while Elodie has led the front of house with grace and warmth, creating an atmosphere that reflects the hospitality of their French roots.

Although Patrice is no longer the executive chef, he continues to operate La Cuisine alongside Elodie, ensuring that every dish and every guest experience stays true to the heart of their original vision.
Together, they have built a restaurant that has earned nine Golden Spoon Awards from Florida Trend Magazine, and a place in its Hall of Fame – but more importantly, a place in the hearts of their guests.

More Than a Restaurant – A Dream Realized

“La cuisine et le vin sont les ambassadeurs de la France,” says Patrice. “Bringing that tradition here to Ocala – a town that embraced us, supported us, and became home to our family – is something we cherish deeply.  We are honored to serve our community and grateful for the friendships and memories we’ve made along the way.”

Welcome to La Cuisine – where French tradition meets Florida hospitality.