Melanie Wehrli

Tell us a little bit about yourself and how you discovered your passion for food.

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I remember being a child and wanting to cook just like my mother. I would stand on a stool to reach the stove, stirring the pot with great determination—I was only five years old. As I grew up, I developed a love for salads and healthy food, although I sometimes craved my friends’ sandwiches with Marmite and butter, or peanut butter and salted butter. My passion for food began early on, driven by a desire to take care of myself and to share that care with others. I have fond memories of packing my own lunch boxes and organizing surprise birthday dinners for my parents.

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What’s your earliest memory related to food?

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One of my earliest memories is actually a story my mother used to tell me. She would show me a picture of myself as a baby, sitting with a big juicy mango. I had orange mango flesh smeared all over my face and a huge smile. It’s funny how a story and an image can become part of your own memory.

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Was it always clear to you that you wanted to turn your passion into your profession? Were there any challenges in making this decision?

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Cooking, especially in gastronomy, can be incredibly challenging. For a long time, I felt like the profession chose me, and I often resisted it. Eventually, I realized that every job has its challenges, and that I could shape this path to suit my own needs. That meant creating a healthier work environment for myself, following my values, and learning to say no when my schedule was full or the budget didn’t align with my expectations.

How did you find the courage to pursue this professionally? When did you know you were good at what you do?

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I struggled with self-doubt at my previous job and often felt that I had underestimated my potential. I felt a growing urge to do more—something that really mattered to me. With the encouragement of my former boss and friends, I finally took the leap into self-employment. I knew I was on the right track when I saw people enjoying my food and found myself enjoying the entire process.

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What advice would you give to someone struggling to find their own path?

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Don’t limit yourself to one career or be afraid of change. Be open to transformation and new experiences—growth happens through action.

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Do you compare yourself to others?

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I observe what others are doing, but I focus on sticking to my own values and identity. These are reflected in the jobs I choose, the products I use, and the aesthetics I express through my work.

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What does a perfect day look like for you?

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A perfect day starts with time for myself—whether it’s going for a run, taking a yoga class, swimming, or reading. After that, I love heading to the market to visit my favorite farmers, cooking a delicious meal, and later meeting friends. Maybe we’ll hang out in the park, visit a natural wine bar, or spend time at the spa, depending on the weather. I always leave space for spontaneity.