And of course, French cuisine as it developed in the nouvelle dishes of the 1970s and ‘80s, owes a debt to Japan. “In the ‘70s, all the big French chefs — Michel Guerard, ...

“Our food is simple, traditional and authentic,” said Fanucci, who speaks in a heavy French accent. Fanucci, who lives in the San Fernando Valley, has serious restaurant credentials.

“French cuisine has many different ways of expressing itself, and the adaptability is what makes it more accessible. We’re able to get inspired by other culinary cultures, ...