Chef Dominique Schrotter Exploring Culinary Boundaries with Michelin-Starred Artistry

text Rihaab Mowlana

Nestled in the heart of Switzerland, Executive Chef Dominique Schrotter has emerged as a culinary maestro, captivating the palates of discerning diners with his Michelin-starred restaurant, La Riva Lenzerheide. Born into a family of restaurateurs, Chef Schrotter’s passion for gastronomy was nurtured from an early age. Having embarked on a journey of culinary exploration, he has blended his diverse influences into a tapestry of flavours that showcase his unique artistic vision. 

From his ancestral roots in rustic Swiss cuisine to his encounters with the vibrant diversity of Asian flavours, Chef Dominique Schrotter’s culinary prowess has captivated the world. Chef Schrotter's culinary odyssey began under the tutelage of renowned chef Robert Haupt at Flühigasse, where he honed his skills and developed a deep understanding of the craft. Seeking to expand his culinary horizons, he ventured beyond Switzerland's borders, embarking on a global quest for culinary knowledge. In destinations like Australia and Bangkok, Chef Schrotter immersed himself in the rich tapestry of cultures, embracing the nuances of each cuisine he encountered.
In 2012, Chef Dominique Schrotter assumed the helm at La Riva, earning accolades and delighting guests with his extraordinary cuisine. The prestigious Michelin Guide recognized his culinary brilliance, awarding him his first Michelin star.
Throughout his culinary journey, Chef Schrotter's family recipes, rooted in rustic Swiss fare, have served as a steadfast influence on his cooking. But it is his encounters with the diverse flavours of Asia that have left an indelible mark on his culinary imagination. From childhood visits to Mauritius, where the interplay of sweet and sour flavours intrigued him, to his travels as an adult through Japan, Australia, Hong Kong, and Singapore, Chef Schrotter has absorbed a treasure trove of culinary secrets, which now find expression in his dishes.
In a recent conversation with the Daily Mirror Life, Chef Dominique Schrotter shared his passion for gastronomy and the fulfilment he finds in his chosen path. He stated that his globetrotting experiences have fueled his creativity and shaped his culinary artistry. From the moment he embarked on his culinary adventures, Chef Schrotter knew he had found his calling. 
While Chef Schrotter continues to dazzle patrons at La Riva, he recently journeyed to Sri Lanka, where he curated a series of special dinners at The London Grill, hosted by the Cinnamon Grand Colombo. These exclusive evenings showcased the fusion of Chef Schrotter's signature dishes with Sri Lankan ingredients, enticing guests with a tantalizing blend of flavours. Diners were treated to exquisite delicacies such as the foie gras terrine, crafted by Chef Schrotter himself, and elevated Sri Lankan favourites like tuna and black sole.
Beyond his culinary pursuits, Chef Dominique Schrotter remains committed to making a positive impact. During his stay in Sri Lanka, he lent his support to a local kindergarten in Kekirawa, helping to improve the lives of underprivileged children through a charitable organization in Switzerland. As Chef Dominique Schrotter continues to push the boundaries of gastronomy, he reminds us that culinary excellence is an ever-evolving art form.