Gastronomy

When Akash Wakade talks about his life in Berlin, you can hear pride, gratitude and plenty of get-up-and-go in his voice. “I feel like I’ve arrived,”says the young cook. Born in Nashik, the wine capital of India, he developed a passion for cooking at an early age. Today he works as a commis chef (i.e. apprentice chef) in the banquet kitchen of the Estrel Hotel in Berlin, the biggest hotel in Germany. Getting there involved a combination of preparation, courage and curiosity.

From France To Germany

Wakade completed his bachelor’s degree in hotel management and kitchen technology/ culinary skills in India. During his studies, he did an apprenticeship in a hotel kitchen in France. “One thing I learned there was how important organization and hygiene are in European catering,” recalls the 28-year-old.“I also got to know a coworker there who told me all about Germany. ”Which aroused his curiosity: “I read a lot about catering here and I knew I wanted to work in Germany at some point.”

So, he began preparing for the big move whilst still in India: “I looked for jobs online and found out about the legal requirements. I also started learning a little German.”

Overcoming Challenges To Make It In Berlin

Finding his feet in Berlin was exciting–but no easy feat...“In India, I lived with my family. Here, I suddenly found myself alone,” recounts Wakade.“I had to get used to everything: new people, new rules and a new language.” Flat-hunting was another challenge. His tip for compatriots contemplating a move to Germany: “Start looking for housing in earnest whilst you’re still in India. There are lots of online platforms advertising flats to let.” Wakade now lives in a small studio apartment in the middle of the city.

The biggest challenge he’s had to face? “Definitely the language,” Wakade admits. “At first, I could hardly speak a word of German, and many of my coworkers speak very little English. But everyone was very helpful. Some of them even took pains to speak English to me even though that was hard for them.”

Everyday Work in a Big Hotel Kitchen

His job is varied and demanding. He works shifts: In the morning, he sets up buffets, bakes croissants and prepares food for lunch. In the evening, he manages the kitchen crew and temporary staff and makes sure that they follow hygiene regulations.“It’s stressful at peak hours. Sometimes we prepare food for five thousand guests! But that’s precisely what I love about my job.”

He particularly likes the way people work in Germany.“The kitchens are modern, everything’svery organized– unlike many Indian establishments.” His favourite German dishes are schnitzel with potato salad and currywurst.

Tips for other Skilled Workers from India

Wakade’s advice to others keen on going to live and work in Germany: “Preparation is everything!” Above all, he recommends learning German, drawing up a clearly structured résumé for job applications, and getting to know the rules of everyday life in Germany. “From local transport to tenancy agreements,”he says,“it’s good to find out ahead of time how things work in Germany.”And you need to be proactive in everyday life, he adds: “You need to go out and meet people, network which is probably easier in Berlin than in other cities because there are so many people from all over the world living here.”

Plans to stay – and get ahead –in Berlin

Wakade has been to many German cities. “But Berlin’s still my favourite,” he says. “It’s multicultural, tolerant, and full of opportunities.”He sees his future career here in the capital: “I want to evolve, take on more responsibility, and eventually become head chef.”

Is he proud of what he has achieved so far? “Veryproud,” he says. “I never lived alone in India. Now I’ve built a self-reliant life for myself abroad. I’ve learnt a lot here and I know that coming to Germany was the right decision.”

Translated from German by Eric Rosencrantz