Ernst Knam is one of Italy's most celebrated and innovative pastry chefs, known as "The King of Chocolate." Founder of Pasticceria Ernst Knam in Milan, he has revolutionized the world of pastry with his bold and technically perfect creations. Winner of numerous international awards, Knam is renowned for his ability to combine high-quality ingredients with cutting-edge techniques, creating desserts that are true works of art.
The Biography
Ernst Knam was born in Tettnang, Germany, and developed a passion for cooking and pastry from a young age. After completing his training at culinary schools in Germany, he decided to expand his skills by working in prestigious restaurants and pastry shops across Europe, including the famous Tantris Restaurant in Munich.
The turning point in Knam's career came with his move to Italy, where he worked as Chef Pâtissier at Gualtiero Marchesi Restaurant, considered one of the pioneers of new Italian cuisine. Here, Knam refined his craft, gaining in-depth knowledge of Italian techniques and developing his unique style that blends German precision with Italian creativity.
In 1992, Ernst Knam opened his pastry shop in Milan, Pasticceria Ernst Knam, which quickly became a landmark for chocolate and high-quality pastry enthusiasts. Knam is known for his innovative creations, such as the Knam cake, which combines unexpected flavors with impeccable presentation. His culinary philosophy is based on the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients and a continuous search for new flavor and texture combinations.
Throughout his career, Knam has received numerous accolades, including the title of World Champion of Gelato in 2012 and the Gold Medal at the International Chocolate Awards. He has also appeared on several television programs, including "Bake Off Italia," where he shared his passion for pastry with a wider audience. His cookbooks, such as "What Paradise Is Without Chocolate?" and "My Story with Chocolate," have become bestsellers, cementing his reputation as one of the world's most respected chocolate masters.