Mike Süsser, German chef and author

Mike Süsser, born on 8 January 1971, is a distinguished German chef, acclaimed culinary author, and a prominent television personality. Known for his engaging approach to cooking and his ability to combine sophisticated techniques with accessible recipes, Süsser has significantly influenced the culinary landscape in both Germany and Austria through his diverse career.

Süsser's foundational culinary education began in his native Germany. He was born in Itzehoe, a town in Schleswig-Holstein, and embarked on his professional training in his home region of Burg, Dithmarschen. Here, he underwent a classical German apprenticeship, known as a 'Kochlehre,' which provided him with a comprehensive grounding in traditional culinary skills and kitchen management. This rigorous training served as a springboard for an impressive international career. His journey led him to work in a variety of esteemed kitchens across the globe, including establishments in the United States, the luxurious alpine resort of Davos in Switzerland, the bustling port city of Hamburg in Germany, and the scenic Atlantic islands of Fuerteventura and Madeira. These diverse international experiences were crucial in shaping his versatile cooking style, exposing him to different ingredients, culinary traditions, and operational excellence standards.

Following his extensive global ventures, Süsser made a strategic move to Austria, a country celebrated for its rich gastronomic heritage. He established himself in Salzburg, a city renowned not only for its historical significance but also for its vibrant culinary scene. A pivotal development in his career was the creation of his first Koch-Event-Studio in Gmunden am Traunsee, located in Upper Austria. This state-of-the-art studio is a dynamic hub for culinary education and experiences, offering a range of activities from hands-on cooking classes for amateur chefs and aspiring home cooks to bespoke team-building events for corporate groups, private dining experiences, and product presentations. It embodies Süsser's commitment to sharing his expertise and fostering a love for high-quality cuisine in an interactive setting.

Beyond his work in professional kitchens and his event studio, Mike Süsser has achieved considerable success as a culinary author. He has published a number of popular cookbooks, many of which focus on making sophisticated dishes approachable for the home cook. His works, often blending traditional German and Austrian flavors with modern techniques, provide clear instructions and inspiration, exemplified by titles such as "Süsser Kochprofis" and "Einfach Gut Essen." Süsser has also become a familiar and respected face on television. He gained widespread recognition for his prominent role on the popular RTL II cooking show "Die Kochprofis" (The Cooking Pros). On this program, he served as one of the lead expert chefs, traveling across Germany with a team to assist struggling restaurants, providing invaluable guidance on menu revamps, operational improvements, and business revitalization. His charismatic presence and expert insights have also led to appearances on other notable German and Austrian television formats, solidifying his status as a revered culinary media personality.

Frequently Asked Questions about Mike Süsser

Where did Mike Süsser receive his initial culinary training?
Mike Süsser received his foundational culinary training through a traditional apprenticeship in his home region of Burg, Dithmarschen, Germany.
What is the purpose of Mike Süsser's Koch-Event-Studio in Gmunden?
His Koch-Event-Studio in Gmunden am Traunsee serves as a versatile culinary center where he hosts a variety of events, including interactive cooking classes, team-building workshops, private dining experiences, and product presentations, all designed to engage participants with gourmet cooking.
What was Mike Süsser's contribution to the TV show "Die Kochprofis"?
As a key expert chef on RTL II's "Die Kochprofis," Mike Süsser, along with his team, provided professional guidance to struggling restaurants across Germany. Their role involved assessing the issues, revamping menus, improving kitchen efficiency, and offering business strategies to help these establishments become profitable again.
Has Mike Süsser worked internationally in his culinary career?
Yes, Mike Süsser has extensive international experience, having worked in professional kitchens in the United States, Davos (Switzerland), Hamburg (Germany), Fuerteventura (Spain), and Madeira (Portugal) before establishing himself in Austria.