A former chef at Moscow’s Cristal Room Baccarat and Carré Blanc, renowned chef David Hemmerle has certainly found a marriage between his passion for travel and love for food. Starting off as an apprentice in France, he has come a long way, even partnering with Michelin star chef Yannick Alleno in Dubai to run One&Only The Palm. Since then, he has returned to Moscow to serve as Four Seasons Moscow’s Executive Chef, overseeing both Quadrum and Bystro.

Here Chef David shares with us candidly about his love for Russia and his aspirations for The World’s 50 Best.

Aspire Lifestyles: You’ve lived in several countries around the world, which is your favourite?

Chef Hemmerle: Well, I was lucky to move to Brazil for three years, from 1998 to 2001. It was a very fun and unforgettable experience. After which, destiny brought me to Moscow where I stayed for 9 years, from 2001 to 2010. I spent the following 4 years warming up in Dubai before moving back to Moscow in 2014. Russia is one of my favourite places as I feel at home, moreover Russia gave me everything when I was still dreaming on making it big.

Aspire Lifestyles: Can you share with us why you’ve decided to stay and work in Russia?

Chef Hemmerle: Firstly, for my family as I am married to a Russian lady who gave me two beautiful kids and lots of love. Secondly, the freedom I get here, everything is possible and there is no limit to possibilities! Thirdly, I am convince that Russia will grow much more, and become the number 1 country in the world.

Aspire Lifestyles: What are your favourite local delights and where do you go to have them?

Chef Hemmerle: Since my arrival in 2001, I have experienced various local food from different cultures within Russia. Being such a huge country with many cultures, Russia has plenty of local food that I enjoy, but my favourite is pelmeni, and the best is the one I am eating at home, made by my family.

Aspire Lifestyles: What are your aspirations for this year’s 50 Best Restaurants?

Chef Hemmerle: A great and honest rating will bring about a constructive impact for the new generation chefs. I am also looking forward to seeing more French Chefs on top of the list!

Aspire Lifestyles: Who do you think can be a winner from Russia at the future World’s 50 Best?

Chef Hemmerle: I would love to see Georgy Troyan from Severyane restaurant. The place is great and has a unique concept. For me, it gives an amazing twist to local favourites here in Russia.