Reza Syarif’s Fusion Cuisine on Board the Edelweiss
Reza Syarif, chef on the MS Edelweiss, is living proof that dreams can come true, even if the path to achieving them is unconventional.
With a mischievous smile and a wink, he shares his journey from dishwasher to “culinary captain” of the ship. His story is as inspiring as the dishes he creates: a delicious fusion of Indonesian flavors, international influences, regional specialties, and, of course, plenty of Swiss cuisine.
A Love for Cooking: A Gift from His Mother
Reza’s passion for cooking was born early in life. His mother, an excellent cook, was his first and most important role model. From her, he not only learned the basics of Indonesian cuisine but also the dedication and attention to detail that make every dish special. Even today, he enjoys cooking for his mother as a sign of gratitude and appreciation.
A Culinary Journey Around the World on the River
Reza’s cooking style is influenced by his travels and experiences worldwide. For him, it is essential to bring the visited destinations to life on the plate: depending on where the MS Edelweiss is anchored, he adjusts the menu and incorporates local specialties. This creates a culinary journey that takes guests from Amsterdam to Budapest, continuously delighting them with new experiences.
Freshness, Quality, and Sustainability: The Edelweiss Kitchen’s Creed
Cooking on a river cruise ship is a logistical challenge. Up to 180 guests need to be served simultaneously, and all at the highest level. Reza and his team master this challenge with flair. Every dish is freshly prepared, from the sauces to the desserts. Sustainability is a crucial aspect. By pre-selecting menus, food waste is minimized without compromising variety and enjoyment.
The culinary concept on board the MS Edelweiss includes two restaurants: “Jungfrau” on the main deck and “Matterhorn” on the middle deck. The “Matterhorn” restaurant features panoramic windows that offer spectacular views during every meal. The culinary offering also includes the option of enjoying a so-called light lunch (small buffet) in the panoramic lounge.
Teamwork and Passion: The Key to Success
Behind every successful menu is a strong team. Reza is proud of his seven-member kitchen brigade, who, with passion and dedication, ensure that every guest has an unforgettable culinary experience. The work is hard, and free time is limited, but the love for cooking and the satisfaction of the guests are the greatest rewards. And this joy can be seen on the young chef’s face.
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