Ep 5. Tim Raue

In season three of Chef's Table, the focus shifts to the culinary world of Berlin, Germany, and one of its most renowned chefs, Tim Raue. His episode opens with a glimpse into his difficult upbringing in a broken home, and how his passion for cooking was ignited as a way to bring structure and order into his life. We see his journey from humble beginnings as a cook in a small German town to opening his namesake Michelin-starred restaurant in the heart of Berlin.

Throughout the episode, Raue shares his philosophy of using food as a means of storytelling, of expressing cultural and personal narratives through dishes. He takes us on a tour of his restaurant, showcasing the bold colors and minimalist aesthetic of his dining room, which perfectly reflects the clarity and precision of his cuisine. Raue is known for drawing on the flavors and techniques of Asian cuisine, specifically the foods of Thailand and Japan, where he has spent time studying and honing his craft.

We see Raue at work in his kitchen, executing intricate dishes that push the boundaries of taste and texture. He speaks passionately about his obsession with getting the details just right, from the precise temperature of the water used to blanch vegetables to the exact ratio of spices in his curry mixes. We are treated to a visual feast of dishes ranging from sea urchin ceviche to roasted pork belly with kimchi, each one visually stunning and bursting with flavor.

Alongside his culinary pursuits, Raue discusses his personal life, including his recent marriage and the challenges of balancing work and family. He shares how his past struggles have shaped the way he approaches his life and work, and how he now sees his role in the kitchen as not just a chef but also a mentor and educator for his team.

The episode also touches on the importance of sustainability in cooking and Raue’s efforts to reduce food waste in his restaurant. He speaks about the responsibility of chefs to use their influence and resources to make positive changes in the food industry, both for the environment and for the people who grow and produce our food.

Overall, Tim Raue's episode of Chef's Table is a powerful exploration of how food can be used to tell stories and foster connections, both across cultures and within our own lives. Raue's dedication to his craft and his commitment to creating dishes that are both beautiful and meaningful make him an inspiration for chefs and food lovers everywhere.