Chef Profile – Abdurahman Theunissen
Chef Mark was recently appointed as Chef Lecturer at our Johannesburg campus.
We asked Chef Mark to tell us about himself:
Chef Mark Coombe
I am originally from a little seaside town called Newquay, situated in the south west of England. I moved to South Africa in 2009 and currently live in Pretoria.
To date I have had 20 years’ experience in the catering industry, working in a bakery from the age of 15, running chalets in the French Alps, to becoming Executive Chef of two highly successful restaurants in the UK.
Whilst being in South Africa I have run my own Tea Garden business for two years and now I have been given the amazing opportunity to be a lecturer at Capsicum Culinary Studio.
What has been the highlight of your career to date?
The highlight of my career so far definitely has to be working in the French Alps. This was an incredible opportunity that I will never forget. I gained a vast amount of experience and life skills from hosting chalets for 16 people, to running hotel kitchens and catering for up to 150 people.
What is your top tip to young aspiring Chefs?
My top tip would be to try and broaden your horizons, by travelling and experiencing a variety of catering cultures to increase valuable knowledge.
Do you have a favourite South African restaurant?
My favourite South African restaurant would be a place in Pretoria called Kream. They have a fantastically diverse menu, great ambiance and impeccable service.
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