Culinary delights at The Chedi Andermatt Restaurant
A culinary journey with Head Chef André Kaiser
Dining at The Chedi Andermatt restaurants offers far more than a meal; it is an experience defined by provenance, craftsmanship, and atmosphere. Blending a love of the Alpine homeland with international sophistication, the cuisine is both refined and distinctive.
In this article, we invite you to join us on a personal journey through the restaurants at The Chedi Andermatt. Head chef André Kaiser shares his philosophy and inspiration, revealing what makes for a truly delightful experience in a hotel long considered one of Switzerland’s most renowned gourmet destinations.
Discover the world of culinary delights at The Chedi Andermatt
Conversation with Head Chef André Kaiser
The origins of a passion
Mr Kaiser, do you remember when your passion for cooking first emerged?
My passion for cooking began at an early age, in my grandmother’s kitchen. She always cooked for us with great dedication and love, and I often helped her. The care she took and the joy her food brought really left a lasting impression on me. After all, that’s what it’s all about: putting a smile on people’s faces with good food.
Key milestones and culinary signature
Your career has taken you through various kitchens. Which of these experiences has had the greatest influence on your style?
One of the key milestones in my career was my time working on the German coast. There, I was fortunate enough to be part of a dynamic and ambitious team. Together, we achieved a great deal, and the team spirit and shared ambition I experienced there had a profound influence on me. During this time, I progressed from Chef de Partie to Sous Chef, further deepening my passion for the profession.
How would you describe your culinary style?
My style is strongly influenced by regional characteristics. It depends entirely on where I happen to be. I use the finest local produce and ingredients to create dishes that truly reflect the area.
Cuisine at The Chedi Andermatt
You have been shaping the dining experience at The Chedi Andermatt as Director of Culinary for some time now. What appeals to you most about this role?
I quickly realised that I wanted to focus on Swiss products. The challenge, and the joy, lies in constantly discovering new and exciting products and producers, and collaborating with them.
The hotel is renowned for its exceptional variety. What makes the concept so special?
To me, our cuisine is unique because each dish pays homage to its origins. We have European creations made with regional and seasonal ingredients, as well as bold Asian flavours. These elements are brought together by our mindful approach to resources and our deep respect for nature. The result is a menu that reflects a cuisine in harmony with its surroundings.
A look behind the scenes
What does a typical working day look like for you?
If possible, I try to complete the administrative tasks for the day by midday. After that, I focus on day-to-day operations and cooking. Throughout the day, I develop new ideas, I communicate with my team and work on projects and events. Sometimes that even includes sharing a little chocolate ice cream with my daughter!
Where do you find inspiration for new dishes?
I draw inspiration from all kinds of moments. In winter, for example, I find inspiration whilst skiing with my team, in the gondola or when chatting with our farmers. The natural surroundings of Andermatt also play an important role, constantly providing me with new ideas for my work.
Sustainability and responsibility
How important are local produce and sustainability?
To me, locally sourced cuisine is of great importance. Working closely with our local farmers is central to my work and an important source of inspiration. It's not just about sourcing locally; it's also about acting sustainably and reducing our ecological footprint as much as possible. We use Ecoblau, a sustainable cleaning system based on ozonated water. This enables us to reduce our use of chemical cleaning products by half, while also minimising our transport distances.
Fine dining reimagined
What does fine dining mean to you personally?
To me, fine dining is not just about luxury; it's about precision, attitude and emotion at the highest possible level. It involves uncompromising product quality, masterful craftsmanship, and intuitive service. The result is a truly memorable experience.
How important is the atmosphere?
The atmosphere is an essential part of the overall dining experience. The setting, service and ambience all influence how a dish is perceived. True enjoyment is only achieved through this interplay.
Trends and developments
Which culinary trends are you currently observing?
I currently see three clear trends.
Firstly, sustainability is no longer a trend, but the norm, with a focus on regional produce, seasonality, and reducing waste. At the same time, guests are seeking more emotional experiences.
The desire for personalisation and bespoke experiences is also playing an increasingly important role. At The Chedi Andermatt, we combine these approaches with a clear, authentic signature style.
Personal insights
Do you still enjoy cooking at home?
Yes, but in a different way. At home, we prioritise simplicity, family and spending time together over perfection. We often cook together in our kitchen-diner, with each person taking on a task – for me, that's just as important as the end result.
What do you like to eat most after a long day at work?
After a long day at work, I often just want something simple, like a slice of sourdough bread with good butter. Or a quiet moment with a chat to my wife.
Experience the cuisine at The Chedi Andermatt
The Chedi Andermatt restaurants are renowned for their cuisine, which blends tradition with innovation. Whether you are enjoying international gourmet cuisine in our Michelin-starred restaurant or savouring a relaxed dining experience, every occasion is characterised by attention to detail, quality and a clear philosophy.
Discover the variety of restaurants at The Chedi Andermatt and experience fine dining in Switzerland at its very best.
