The former head chef of a top restaurant reveals the truth about his behavior on TV - 'plates flew'
Alex Räsänen, the ex-head chef of the acclaimed Helsinki restaurant Farang, reflects on his tumultuous past in the kitchen and his new venture of opening a café in Ylläsjärvi.
Alex Räsänen, previously the head chef at Farang, an award-winning restaurant in Helsinki, discusses his journey on the TV series 'Unelma Lapista.' The second season follows his transition from the fast-paced restaurant environment in the city to opening a new café in the Ylläsjärvi ski area. Räsänen candidly recalls his experiences at Farang, particularly the temperamental aspects of working in high-pressure kitchen settings where he felt the need to prove himself and often ended up throwing plates and shouting at staff. During the program, Räsänen reflects on his past behavior and how he has changed over the years. He acknowledges that such conduct is unprofessional and inappropriate in today's culinary world. His past experiences have led him to reassess his approach to the kitchen and his interactions with colleagues, stating that he no longer wants to be that type of person and recognizes the importance of maintaining a respectful work environment. Räsänen also shares the financial struggles he has faced in recent years, which influence his decision to start a new venture in a rural area rather than remain in the bustling Helsinki restaurant scene. Overall, Räsänen's journey in 'Unelma Lapista' highlights not only a personal transformation but also the evolving nature of professional kitchens in Finland. This story underscores the challenges chefs face in balancing the demanding aspects of their jobs with emotional intelligence and professionalism, offering insights into how the culture within kitchens is changing, particularly in a post-pandemic context.