Young Chef Who Won Eastern Europe’s Biggest Cooking Show
At just 24, Janni Alexandridis has already carved out a name for himself in the culinary world. His journey began in his family’s restaurant kitchen and led him to win Season 12 of Romania’s top culinary competition, Chefi la Cuțite, earning a €30,000 prize.
Early Passion Ignited in Family Restaurant
Born into a family that owned a restaurant, Janni’s love for cooking was sparked early on. By age 14, he was already drawn to the art of fine dining. “My parents already had a restaurant, and this is how I discovered my passion for cooking,” he recalls. His inspiration came not only from chefs but also from influential figures across various industries.
Training at a Michelin-Starred Restaurant at 16
At 16, Janni began his culinary career at the Michelin-starred Cheval Blanc restaurant. This experience taught him the discipline and precision required at the highest levels of gastronomy. “At this level, there is no room for mistakes, personal problems, holidays, relationships,” he notes, highlighting the sacrifices made for his craft.
Winning ‘Chefi la Cuțite’ Season 12
Janni’s talent shone through in Chefi la Cuțite, where he stood out among thousands of participants. His victory was a testament to his skill and dedication. “It was an amazing feeling to be the only one standing out of thousands of participants,” he shares.
Operating Three Culinary Ventures
Today, Janni operates three companies: an international private cooking service, a media and social media enterprise, and his first restaurant. He emphasizes the importance of teamwork, stating, “You are nothing without your team!” He believes that investments, whether time, energy, or learning, are crucial from the beginning.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Chefs
Janni is passionate about inspiring young people to pursue careers in gastronomy. “I want to inspire young people to enter the world of gastronomy, to be excited about it and proud to work in this field,” he says. He aims to create the right environment for aspiring chefs to thrive.
Social Media Presence
With over 108,000 followers on Instagram and a growing presence on TikTok, Janni shares his culinary creations and behind-the-scenes moments, connecting with fans and food enthusiasts worldwide. Follow him on Instagram.
Words of Wisdom
Janni advises aspiring chefs to stay positive and focused on their vision. “Always think positive, stick to your vision, and do not listen to people’s opinion about what you are able to achieve. It’s your dream, not theirs!” he encourages.
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