Nicolas Smalberger A Potpourri of Perfectionism
One look at his impressive resume and the first thought that crosses the mind: is there anything in culinary that Chef Nicolas has not done or achieved? Not surprising then that he has been consistently featured in the Caterer ME Power 50 list, is the recipient of a wealth of accolades including Chef of the Year from Leaders in F&B Awards in 2017 and the Sustainability Champion Award from Pro Chef Middle East in 2014, besides several others.
With a career spanning 24 years globally, he has worked with some of the most internationally renowned chefs, including Conrad Gallagher, Liam Tomlin, Laurent Manrique, and Richard Corrigan, all of whom have been awarded two or more Michelin stars for restaurants they have managed and owned.
South Africa, Nigeria, Zambia, India, China, New York, Finland, Sweden & Germany is where he shined with his F&B and Culinary Operations skills, later also adding on consultancy to his experience where he took up projects in Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Tanzania.
‘Pure Genius’
Armed with a Diploma in International Hospitality and Professional Cookery, from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, a Zodiak Business Finance & Strategy Certification, a Black Belt Certification in Management of Profitable Food & Labor Cost Targets and Margins, coupled with his judicious decision-making skills makes him an astute leader.
His core strength includes skills such as Kitchen and Restaurant Design, Menu Engineering & Implementation, People Development & Performance Management, Planning & Budgeting, Development of New F&B Concepts and Environmentally Friendly & Sustainable Menus, Product Feasibility Studies & Market Research.
Smalberger has also expertly headed several promotional events such as Chefs Table Event hosted at The Palace of the Lost City; International Food Festival held at the Convention Centre in Cape Town; 26th International Trade and Commerce Festival hosted by South African High Commission in the Taj Palace, Mumbai, and Delhi; Chinese Food Festival at the Ritz Carlton in Shanghai, etc..
Besides managing mammoth events he has also handled herculean tasks of looking after the Head of States, Official sponsors, Worldwide International Teams whilst South Africa hosted the 2010 FIFA World Cup. No mean play here.