Chef René Bleiker

René Bleiker joined Gate Gourmet (then SWISSAIR Catering) in 1989 and currently serves as the Product Development Chef for Switzerland. Chef Rene specializes in international fusion cuisine and is primarily responsible for SWISS International Air Lines (former SWISSAIR, CROSSAIR and BALAIR), serving as the carrier's Executive Account Manager in addition to his culinary role.

Chef René takes great pride in inventing new combinations and flavors using simple but exquisite ingredients. His love of the airline catering world is due to the multi-cultural environment, which offers an enormous range of different cuisine styles in one place.

Chef René received his education as a chef in the mid-1980s, working at Restaurant Casino in Herisau, Switzerland; as a Chef at Restaurant Stadtkeller and Chef de partie at Restaurant zum Goldenen Schäfli, both in St. Gallen, Switzerland; and then in 1987-88 as the Chef de cuisine at Hotel Engel in Wädenswil, Switzerland, as well as Chef tournant at Hotel Palace in St. Moritz, Switzerland, during 1988’Äì89, prior to joining Gate Gourmet.

In the late 1990s, he went on to study Information Technology Project Management at Wirtschafts Informatikschule Schweiz, and has followed that with various IT-based workshops for Windows and SAP. He also has participated in an Introductory course for billing systems in addition to a number of leadership seminars and product development workshops at Gate Gourmet.

Over the last 15-plus years, Chef René has served in numerous roles with increasing responsibilities, including Production Planner ASPIC and SAP; Deputy Manager of Customer Service; and DTP Manager for SWISS International Air Lines.

Chef René's favorite dish is Sautéed Goose Liver on a Caramelized Apple Slice, accompanied with delicious chutney consisting of onions, apple and white balsamic vinegar. When he's not creating delectable food for Gate Gourmet, he enjoys sharing his talent in the kitchen by cooking for friends. His other passion? Riding Harley Davidson motorcycles with friends.

Chef René's Kitchen Tips