Duchardt
A breath of fresh air in Vienna’s top gastronomy. The 2 toque-awarded Restaurant Walter Bauer, in Vienna’s 1st district, has now been taken over by Marcus Duchardt, a toque-awarded chef with German/French roots. His credo is: “The best from local forests to the open sea. Culinary art at the highest level, interpreted in a contemporary way.”

www.duchardt.at

Skin’s
The taste, to which they consistently aspire, has been refined with two stars. Kevin Romes and Pascal Hobler stand for reduced cuisine, an intricate craft and re-interpreted tradition.

www.skins-restaurant.ch

Lucide
Michèle Meier knows how to interpret the best products in a groundbreaking way and to prepare them with love. Inspiring, fresh and at the same time authentic cuisine awaits the gourmet.

www.lucide-luzern.ch

Magdalena
Young, talented and self-assured. The products originate for the most part from the surrounding area, a number of them even from Rickenbach. Dominik Hartmann and his team surprise and charm their guests with their fine tasting presentation from the region.

www.restaurant-magdalena.ch

Fotos: © Peter Schuhböck, donagrafik.com, Skin’s, Lucide, Magdalena

THE THIRD ZENITH SPECIAL EDITION FOR EXTREME E IS HERE: INTRODUCING THE DEFY EXTREME E COPPER X PRIX

For this next race of the 2022 Extreme E championship, the teams are heading far off the beaten path to South America, a first for the electric rally racing championship. One of the world’s foremost copper mining areas and one that is incorporating an innovative and sustainable approach to its operations, the Atacama Desert, Chile, sets the stage for the unveiling of ZENITH’s third special edition watch commemorating an Extreme E race. The DEFY Extreme E Copper X Prix, a limited edition of 20 pieces, combines carbon fibre and titanium with earthy tones that recall the copper mines of the region, while incorporating recycled and upcycled elements from the championship.

Inspired by the world of extreme motorsports and conceived with ruggedness in mind, the DEFY Extreme E Copper X Prix is designed to take on the electric rally’s thrilling off-road courses in some of the world’s most remote environments. Based on the DEFY Extreme Carbon, the world’s lightest and most robust 1/100th of a second automatic high-frequency chronograph, the DEFY Extreme E “Copper X Prix” incorporates upcycled elements from the championship with the back-to-back races’ official colour of warm coppery-brown.

The DEFY Extreme E “Copper X Prix” edition is crafted in lightweight yet highly durable carbon fibre, including the crown and chronograph pushers. Emphasizing the boldly angular geometry of the case, the pusher protectors as well as the twelve-sided bezel are made in microblasted titanium.

The open multi-layered dial consists of tinted sapphire crystal elements, embellished with coppery-brown accents that evoke the dry, rocky terrain and copper mines of the Chilean desert. Partially visible through the dial as well as the sapphire case back is the fastest automatic high-frequency chronograph calibre in production, offering 1/100th of a second time measurements, with two escapements independently beating at 5Hz (36’000 VpH) for the timekeeping part and 50Hz (360’000 VpH) for the chronograph function. The movement is also visible through the sapphire display back, emblazoned with the Copper X Prix logo.

Bringing sustainability and environmental awareness to the forefront of ZENITH and Extreme E’s partnership, the DEFY Extreme E “Copper X Prix” is delivered with a rubber strap infused with materials of upcycled Continental CrossContact tires that were used in the first season’s races. Matching the Copper X Prix copper-brown accents on the dial, the Velcro strap features a black rubber central element surrounded by a brown cordura-effect rubber inlay. The DEFY Extreme E “Copper X Prix” is delivered with two additional straps in black rubber and black Velcro, which can be easily swapped without any tools by using the case back’s ingenious and intuitive quick strap-change mechanism.

The DEFY Extreme E “Copper X Prix” comes packaged in a suitably sturdy waterproof and crushproof watch case inspired by the extreme conditions of the rally, incorporating various upcycled elements from the side-lines of the first season’s races. The case’s lid coating is made from E-grip recycled tires, while the plate covering is made from parts of an Extreme E racing tarpaulin.

The DEFY Extreme E “Copper X Prix” will be made in a limited edition of only 20 pieces and will be available exclusively at ZENITH physical and online boutiques around the world.

ZENITH: TIME TO REACH YOUR STAR.

ZENITH exists to inspire individuals to pursue their dreams and make them come true – against all odds. Since its establishment in 1865, ZENITH became the first vertically integrated Swiss watch manufacture, and its watches have accompanied extraordinary figures that dreamt big and strived to achieve the impossible – from Louis Blériot’s history-making flight across the English Channel to Felix Baumgartner’s record-setting stratospheric free-fall jump. Zenith is also highlighting visionary and trailblazing women by celebrating their accomplishments and creating the DREAMHERS platform where women share their experiences and inspire others to fulfil their dreams.

With innovation as its guiding star, ZENITH exclusively features in-house developed and manufactured movements in all its watches. Since the creation of the El Primero in 1969, the world’s first automatic chronograph calibre, ZENITH has gone on to master high-frequency precision and offers time measurements in fractions of a second, including 1/10th of a second in the Chronomaster collection and 1/100th of a second in the DEFY collection. Because innovation is synonymous with responsibility, the ZENITH HORIZ-ON initiative affirms the brand’s commitments to inclusion & diversity, sustainability and employee wellbeing. ZENITH has been shaping the future of Swiss watchmaking since 1865, accompanying those who dare to challenge themselves and reach new heights. The time to reach your star is now.

Wallace Chan at the Biennale Arte in Venice

Whether he is creating intricate, opulent jewelry with precious gemstones or monumental sculptures made of titanium – the works of the Chinese artist Wallace Chan always convey his Buddhist philosophy. His exhibition “TOTEM“ can currently be seen at the 59th Biennale Arte in Venice. We met him in the city of the lagoons for an exclusive interview. 

Bettina Krause (BK): What is the concept behind this exhibition?
Wallace Chan: Visitors are invited to move through fragments of a ten meter high sculpture. The theme is uncertainty – in the darkened exhibition room it is difficult to ascertain how the fragments can be reassembled. Generally we look at sculptures as a whole from a distance, we move around them and the inside remains concealed. I wanted to open up this idea, so the observer can see the inside of the sculpture and become a part of it. They move through the fragments, which I call Totems, form a bond with them and acquire surprising, uncertain perspectives again and again.

Has this concept become a symbol of our world order?
Correct. We are currently living in extremely uncertain times but it is my hope that the fragments of the sculpture – and of our world – can be pieced together again to form an intact whole. So that the process of construction, deconstruction and reconstruction become complete.

So are you optimistic about the future?
At the moment our world is waiting to be repaired again. I believe that the world and we as people have the strength to heal ourselves. However, we have to work at it. The exhibition is a symbol of these connections and is deconstructed and reconstructed at different locations worldwide. In its current state it is reminiscent of strength and the possibility to heal and find balance again.

What does the title “TOTEM“ express?
The concept of a Totem is our attempt as people to establish a connection with the unknown. It is simultaneously our hope for something greater outside our reality. My earliest childhood memories include artistic carvings of dragons, phoenix and wondrous creatures at Chinese temples. The belief is that we are connected to the Gods because the figures are carved in the temples. The idea of the Totem is our attempt to enter a world that is unknown to us, to enter the uncertain.

What can visitors take with them from the exhibition?
The objective is to reflect on the process of deconstruction and reconstruction of ourselves: What is our self? What makes us what we are? Are we the person we seem to believe or are we beings formed by society? We live in a time of information overload and are bombarded with information. Sometimes we think it is a part of us because we absorb the information unfiltered without reflecting on our own existence. I think this is a good place for contemplation and to reflect on the idea of our own self – where it originates and where it goes.

Can art contribute to overcoming the crises of our time?
Yes, because art has the power to help us to transcend. Whatever we are currently experiencing in the physical world – it gives us the possibility to dream of a better, higher, more beautiful world full of good. I believe in the power of art and I cannot imagine a world without it. Without art there is no hope. 

TOTEM by Wallace Chan
April 20^th – Oktober 23^rd, 2022
Fondaco Marcello
Calle del Tragheto, Venedig

Photos Copyrights:  Massimo Pistore

Five-Star Spa Hotel in the Volcanic Landscape of Iceland

Moss-covered plains, hot springs and rugged earth – the terrain in Reykjanes, a peninsula in the southwest of Iceland, is as rustic as it is exceptional. Situated in the middle of an 800 year old lava field, the five-star luxury hotel “The Retreat Blue Lagoon Iceland“ celebrates its proximity to nature just as much as its promise of ultimate pleasure and comfort. 

The view of the bizarre and impressive landscape from 62 minimalistically designed suites at the Blue Lagoon can only be described as breathtaking. There is no need for a television in the rooms. When constructing the retreat the Basalt Architects were guided by the natural lava formations found there and consistently adapted their designs to the original landscape. “Nature was the guideline. We often felt that every location was a game of chance“, says Sigríður Sigþórsdóttir, founder of Basalt Architects. The architects were also inspired by nature when designing the exclusive interior. The atmospheric 40 to 200 square meter suites radiate authenticity and peace to the same degree as safety and warmth. From nest-like armchairs and smooth bed linen to afternoon tea in the lounge or the excellent service – the hotel diffuses an overall feeling of well-being.

Exclusive Private Lagoon

The highlight when staying at the Blue Lagoon Hotel is the spacious, subterranean spa area with its dark walls of lava stone that emits a deep sense of being connected to nature. In the blue lagoon the 35 to 40 degree warm and up to 1.40 meter deep water shimmers with a bluish light. The lagoon, which lends the hotel its name, was formed near to the Svartsengi volcano from geothermal seawater; which not only feels soothing due to its high salt and mineral content – it actually has a healing effect. The Blue Lagoon ritual pampers, cleanses and rejuvenates the body with silica sand, algae and minerals. The in-water massages are also a unique, revitalizing experience. Those seeking seclusion can book the private Lava Cove, optionally with butler and private chef. The features of this splendid suite include a private 35 square meter lagoon with terrace and fireplace – heavenly peace inclusive.

Dining on the Lava Cliff

The view of the exceptional volcanic landscape and the nuances of the moss-covered expanses that change with the weather conditions is not the only highlight when dining in the evening at the Moss Restaurant. The exquisite delicacies on the plate are also inspired by the Icelandic mountains, fields,
rivers and the sea. The chef’s table gourmet dinner comprises of 7-courses of fresh, local and seasonal ingredients, served on the massive lava stone table. When you visit the Blue Lagoon Hotel time seems to stand still for a while. The closeness of the fascinating natural beauty is ever-present: The view from the hotel terrace of the bewitching color spectacle of the Northern Lights in Iceland is unforgettable.

 www.bluelagoon.com

Photos Copyrights: The retreat at the Blue Lagoon Iceland

HORSEPOWER refers to the power needed to lift 1 kg 75 centimetres in 1 second. An average horse manages approximately 24 hp.

No – You are neither a wimp nor a weakling if you have your eye on a care product and indulge in a fresh boost for your skin after the winter months! Dry air from the central heating and days of sport in the snow has proven quite stressful for our largest organ. The sensitive skin on the face is particularly in need of an extra moisture surge.

There is a wide range of cosmetic products on offer – almost bewildering for the male capacity on this theme. And then all the discussions on which ingredients are really good and which should not appear in the content list. We have brought light into the care product jungle and compiled our recommendations for you.

Argentum Apothecary

Julisis

Orveda

Seed to skin

Photos Copyrights: Orveda, Seed to skin, Argentum Apothecary, Julisis, Shutterstock

Days of valediction

Tears are flowing down my cheeks, while a heartbreaking sob, encompassing all pain in this world and slowly crippling my chest, creeps up and I finally agonizingly expel it out into the world. My heat, broken a thousand times over, beats persistently in my chest, although I was 1000% sure that it had turned to stone.

Even weeks after your natural burial I ask myself how life should go on. Lenny, how could this happen? Where are you now?

The most wonderful memories of our time together race through my head…testosterone-loaded turf wars, long nights, car races and thrilling adventures with women. Our friendship was so special, full of mutual and unconditional trust. We relished life; no one even came close to us. How often did we show my can opener, Adam, what a real tomcat is capable of? We laughed in the wind, inhaling a deep breath of lavender and Dreamies.
Life was so wonderfully uncomplicated with you.   And now? My days have been passing as if in slow motion. Adam honestly made a lot of effort to distract me but how can the thought that you are now the brightest star in heaven help when tears are fogging my view and I am missing you so much?  Now and then I sat at the computer and looked for comfort in bereavement websites, but the very noise of the computer booting up upset me. I finally sat down in a trance at the table and used the pen to express in writing the pain of your loss. When I had finished writing our story, I tied a black satin bow around it, lay down on the sofa and fell into a deep, all encompassing sleep.

When I woke again, days must have passed, because I first had to try to find my orientation, had insufferable bad breath and my stomach was rumbling strongly. So I plundered the fridge, just like in the old days, had a luxurious bubble bath and cleaned my pearly whites. Hard to believe, but I felt better. Now I wanted to finish the affair and to burn my grief in a ritual-like act involving a gigantic fire. This was the only way to finally be able to concentrate on focusing on the future again. I would send our story, which had now been committed to paper, to a publisher, who would rip the bestseller out of my hands.

The reason for things turning out differently can be put down to the fact that my story did not exactly shed the best light on my can opener. At some point when I was asleep he must have found the text and in a rage threw it across the terrace, above my head into the gigantic bonfire in the garden. I was stunned! Again I let a heart-wrenching scream, but this time it was anger and I cold-bloodedly took it out on my can opener. When he came out of hospital a few days later, I had already dictated everything onto a dictaphone and he was able to begin typing my book into the computer using his eagle eyed search system.

Death is the horizon in our lives, but the horizon is only the end of our perspective. I had finally turned the corner; I was almost back to my old self and was looking forward again! Old friend, you will remain unforgotten in my heart and I will dedicate the bestseller to you, I promise!

Illustration Copyrights: Manuela Dona

Multitalent & Dreamer
Zurich all-rounder performs in clubs and on Broadway

On the fast track to making it big

When his father was on detox, he sought refuge and found it in cookery books. At the age of 15 he opened his first pop-up-restaurant. Today at the age of twenty the only thing missing is a michelin star. Flynn McGarry is New York’s youngest prodigy cook.

Since it opened a year ago, everyone has been talking about the New York restaurant Gem. Back then, shortly before his 19th birthday, Flynn McGarry had the contract in his hands, however his sister had to sign it because you do not get an alcohol license in the USA at the age of 19. Since then every step he takes is followed with eagle eyes. „Everybody expected that I would fail.“, said McGarry in a documentary. And one of his chefs agrees with him: „They don’t want us to be this good, but we are anyway.“ Gastronomy is a hard business and in particular the New York market is highly competitive. Nowhere else do you find so many star chefs in one place. If you want to survive here you cannot afford to make mistakes. McGarry feels the pressure but says that nothing great has been achieved without pressure. A sentence that is characteristic for him.

McGarry works painstakingly, 16 to 18 hours a day. He blocks out any thoughts about enviers or hate mail. Some hold it against him that at the age of twenty he has achieved what others begin dreaming of at twenty. But they forget how long Flynn has been practicing his culinary skills.

When his parents divorced, his father went into detox. Flynn was lonely and quickly fed up with ready-made meals from the supermarket. He experimented his way through cookery books that were lying around the house. And all of a sudden he can’t think of anything else. Famous chefs become rock stars, who he adores. His obsession went so far that his parents built a kitchen in his bedroom on his insistence. And so it began, a tender ten years young, flambéing and caramelizing. His most expensive item was a 300 dollar sous-vide cooker, for which the entire family pooled together.

At the age of twelve McGarry began his career as a professional chef. While his school mates arranged to go to baseball games, the freckled redhead worked meticulously on recipes. He hosted dinners for family and friends, served several exquisite courses with ingredients that his peers could not even spell. As his mother then cannot afford to lug home heaps of food so her boy can perfect his skills, Flynn launches official pop-up dinners.

Boy wonder at work

When he was only 15, The New York Times Magazine celebrated him as the discovery in gastronomy. The cover shows the boy wonder at work, highly concentrated. At the same time he opened his first pop-up restaurant, Eureka, in West Village. After one visit, journalist Christopher Noxon wrote for the New Yorker about moments when he thought: Damn, I have never had anything better than this in my mouth!

And now the Gem. Flynn serves most of the dishes in the same way as when he was cooking at home. A relaxed atmosphere is important, you should feel at ease when eating. A typical dinner in Gem consists of 12 to 15 courses, for which you should allow yourself two hours. The cost for the experience is 200 dollars. In New York you can easily spend the same amount on a meal or some other commodity, justified McGarry. When you read reviews from the patrons, you could trip on the superlatives, for example culinary discovery, explosive experiences. At the moment it does not look as if he could possibly fail …

Flynn McGarry is coming to Switzerland for the first time. As part of the Gourmet festival `19 the “culinary wunderkind“ will be cooking from 8th until 9th November 2019 on the Excellence Princess during a river trip from Basel to Strasbourg and back. For more information and tickets go to www.mittelthurgau.ch.

Photos Copyrights: Restaurant Gem, Joshua Aronson, mittelthurgau.ch, Angela Pham/BFA.com