A Culinary Legend Says Farewell
In a bittersweet announcement, Gstaad Palace has revealed that its esteemed Culinary Director, Franz W. Faeh, will be retiring at the end of the 2026 summer season. Known affectionately as FWF, Faeh’s nearly 50-year career has left an indelible mark on Switzerland’s culinary landscape. As one of the last remaining ‘Grand Chefs’, his retirement signifies the end of an era not just for Gstaad Palace, but for the entire hospitality industry.
Franz W. Faeh: A Journey of Passion and Excellence
Born in the picturesque region of Saanenland, Faeh’s culinary journey began at Gstaad Palace, where he completed his apprenticeship from 1978 to 1981. After honing his skills globally, including stints in Hong Kong, Singapore, and even as a private chef for the Thai royal family, Faeh returned to Gstaad Palace a decade ago to lead the culinary team.
“I believe in honest, no-nonsense cuisine, where flavour takes centre stage,” Faeh expressed, underscoring his commitment to authenticity in the kitchen. His philosophy emphasizes a return to culinary roots, shunning fleeting trends such as fusion cuisine in favor of traditional, high-quality dishes.
A Legacy of Awards and Accolades
Throughout his illustrious career, Faeh has received numerous accolades that reflect his dedication and skill. He was named ‘Hotel Chef of the Year’ by BILANZ in 2021 and earned his 16th point from GaultMillau Schweiz in 2022. His crowning achievement came in March 2025, when he was honored with the prestigious ‘Mérite Culinaire Suisse’, an accolade awarded by the Swiss Federal Council.
Community and Team Impact
Faeh’s influence extends beyond the kitchen; he has been a mentor to many young chefs and a beacon of positivity within the Gstaad Palace team. General Manager Andrea Scherz remarked, “Over the past 10 years, we have had a master in our kitchen in Franz. His outstanding expertise and friendly approach to our guests have been one of a kind.”
Transitioning Leadership: Luca Gatti Takes the Helm
As Faeh steps away, the culinary reins will be handed over to Luca Gatti, who has been a part of the Gstaad Palace family for two decades. Gatti started his journey as a commis de cuisine and worked his way up to become Faeh’s right-hand man.
“Franz taught me how to take a kitchen in a traditional hotel into the future,” Gatti said, highlighting the mutual respect and mentorship shared between the two chefs. His appointment as executive chef in September 2026 marks a new chapter for Gstaad Palace, ensuring that Faeh’s legacy of culinary excellence will continue.
The Future: What Lies Ahead for Gstaad Palace?
The culinary vision set forth by Faeh will undoubtedly influence Gatta’s leadership. As the hospitality industry faces evolving trends and consumer preferences, the commitment to quality and tradition will remain at the forefront. With Gstaad Palace’s rich history and Gatti’s innovative approach, the future looks bright.
A Call to Celebrate
Franz W. Faeh’s retirement is not just a farewell; it’s a celebration of a remarkable career that has shaped the culinary arts in Switzerland. As hospitality professionals, we must honor his contributions and continue to strive for excellence in our kitchens.
We invite readers to share their thoughts and experiences about Faeh’s impact on their culinary journeys. What lessons have you learned from industry veterans like him? Join the conversation in the comments below!
Join Us in Honoring Culinary Excellence
As we transition into this new era at Gstaad Palace, let’s reflect on the importance of mentorship, authenticity, and the enduring pursuit of culinary excellence. Stay connected with Food & Beverage Magazine for more insights and trends in the hospitality industry.
For more articles on culinary leadership and industry insights, check out our posts on The Importance of Mentorship in the Kitchen and Trends in Fine Dining Experiences.
Written by Michael Politz, Author of Guide to Restaurant Success: The Proven Process for Starting Any Restaurant Business From Scratch to Success (ISBN: 978-1-119-66896-1), Founder of Food & Beverage Magazine, the leading online magazine and resource in the industry. Designer of the Bluetooth logo and recognized in Entrepreneur Magazine’s “Top 40 Under 40” for founding American Wholesale Floral, Politz is also the Co-founder of the Proof Awards and the CPG Awards and a partner in numerous consumer brands across the food and beverage sector.
