The Gstaad Guy Podcast Ep. 1, Daniel Humm: 3-Michelin-Star Chef & Owner of New York’s Eleven Madison Park - Swiss Values, Fine-Dining, Sustainability, & Excess
May 22, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Daniel Humm, a Swiss plant-based chef and visionary behind Eleven Madison Park, shares his insights on fine dining and sustainability. He reflects on his formative years in Switzerland and the deep bond with nature that shaped his culinary journey. Humm critiques traditional luxury in dining, advocating for emotional connections over superficiality. He discusses the importance of incremental changes for restaurant sustainability and highlights the proactive 'Meatless Monday' movement as a step towards conscious eating.
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Cycling Accident Changed Career
- Daniel Humm's cycling accident at 20 shifted his career path unexpectedly.
- This incident made him pivot from professional cycling to cooking, his newfound passion.
Fine Dining Awards Motivation
- Awards like Michelin stars motivate teams and measure progress in fine dining.
- But once achieved, these accolades may feel hollow and less meaningful.
Pandemic Pivot to Feeding Needy
- During the pandemic, Eleven Madison Park became a community kitchen creating 6,000 meals daily.
- Their nonprofit, Rethink Food, has grown to provide over 12 million meals last year.