The late Auguste Gusteau, France's greatest all-time culinary genius, is the author of Anyone Can Cook, the cookbook that inspired Remy to dream of becoming a chef. His restaurant, in Paris, France, became a landmark on the strength of Gusteau's imaginative vision and masterful preparation, which simultaneously honored and played with the traditions of French cuisine. Gusteau died mysteriously soon after his restaurant was downgraded from five stars to four stars (by Monsieur Ego), but his spirit lives on in his recipies and in Remy's imagination -- the great chef is a recurring figure as Remy's imaginary soul mate and counselor.