THE WEDDING CAKE IS A SPECIAL MISSION: TO PROMISE THE NEWLYWEDS A SWEET LIFE AND LEAVE THE LAST GUEST FOR GUESTS, BUT THE MOST TASTY REMINDER ABOUT THE HOLIDAY. WE COMMUNICATED WITH ONE OF THE MOST FAMOUS CONFECTIONERS OF DUBAI: ON INSPIRATION, SKILL, ROYAL WEDDINGS AND THAT EVERYTHING IS MORE IMPORTANT: A BEAUTIFUL WRAP OR HIDDEN. How did your pastry chef start?
My greatest inspiration since childhood was my mother. I was always happy to help her in the kitchen in preparing traditional Austrian sweets. The variety of flavors and ingredients used by her was fascinating. So I inherited the love of confectionery from it. To become a professional, I entered the corresponding four-year training program in Austria.
What is needed for culinary success?
In my opinion, in any case, for a good reputation you need to adhere to high standards and offer only the best. The key to success in my profession is a great passion for work and a desire to provide a product of the highest quality.
Are you a team player?
Yes, and I have been in the team of cooks of Jumeirah Beach Hotel for 17 years. I was very lucky on this wonderful trip. We constantly train and encourage young talents, we try to inspire them to create the best product. And we grow as professionals all together. Reliable and experienced people nearby, as in my team, help to cope with daily tasks.
Should a pastry chef have design skills?
Decorating is an important step in making cakes. But the taste and texture are still paramount. At Latitude products, we focus on quality. And yes, the excellent taste gets a beautiful wrapper, that is, design. Applications from guests requesting an unusual cake design are not uncommon. And the accuracy of their implementation surprises our customers.
Please tell us about your most unique creation.
A few years ago I was invited to work at a royal wedding. I and 30 other confectioners of the Jumeirah hotel chain created a six-meter cake for the celebration. Such a chance and a unique experience definitely fall out once in a lifetime!
For which celebrity would you like to create a birthday cake?
For Gordon Thomas, better known as Sting. His music always inspired me, especially when I was young and just starting my confectionery journey in Austria.
And what sweetness do you personally love?
English traditional dessert trifle. It is tasty and very easy to prepare.
