Yes, there are many top-class chefs who have honed their skills and expertise to the point where they can cook a three-course meal for ten people without ever looking at their recipes. These chefs have years of experience, extensive knowledge of various cooking techniques, and a deep understanding of flavor combinations and ingredient pairings.
Memorizing recipes is a common practice for experienced chefs, especially for dishes they frequently prepare. They have a thorough understanding of the cooking process and the required ingredients, which allows them to cook with precision and creativity without needing to refer to written recipes.
Furthermore, the ability to cook without relying on recipes is often a sign of a chef's mastery and culinary artistry. It enables them to improvise, adapt to ingredient availability, and tailor dishes to suit the preferences of their guests.
While not all chefs might choose to cook without recipes, many renowned chefs and culinary experts have developed this level of skill and confidence in their cooking abilities. It showcases their passion, dedication, and expertise in the culinary arts.