A lifelong love of all foods
Having worked as a chef for more than three decades, there’s not much Fred Berkmiller doesn’t know about creating delicious dishes that leave his diners wanting more.
However, his skill, knowledge and passion wasn’t only developed in the best kitchens of Paris, Monte Carlo and London where he honed his craft. No, his love for food was first developed at the kitchen table in his family home.
He explained: “My family has always loved food. From a young age, I foraged for seafood, including cockles, mussels and oysters, with my grandmother. We always had those long, late afternoon lunches that turned into dinner on a Sunday, eating with the whole family.
“And dinner at home was always very important – everybody had to be home. Whether we were at school, college or working, everybody had to sit together at home in the evening because that’s where all the discussions happened.
“In between courses, we talked about school reports, holidays, work, finances, everything.
“So, I guess I’ve always been into food in a sense. Then as I grew up, my love for food grew. I don’t do what I do for a success or something like a Michelin Star – I do it for the love of food.”
He continued: “I had my first oyster at probably six, my first spoon of spinach at eight. Later, I would forage for mushrooms or the first asparagus of the season.
“I am privileged to have grown up with food like that, and I believe we have a duty to do the same for the next generation.”