After five years of success, Tobias Schmitt, Michelin-starred chef and creative soul of the Favorite Parkhotel in Mainz, has announced his departure. The news came as a surprise to many lovers of haute cuisine, but it is accompanied by a positive motivation: Schmitt's desire to devote more time to his family, especially after the birth of his second child.
The news
The decision was communicated in full agreement with the Barth family, owners and historic heart of the renowned hotel and restaurant, who expressed their understanding and gratitude for the shared journey. As Christian Barth, managing partner, stated: “We have had five very fruitful years with Tobias. We fully respect his decision,” he explained, as reported by Rolling Pin.
The pandemic years and the value of resilience
Schmitt took over the kitchen in 2020, in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic.
In a context marked by uncertainty and restrictions, he managed to retain the restaurant's Michelin star thanks to his creativity, determination, and team spirit. His refined yet down-to-earth style enabled the restaurant to thrive even in difficult times, proving that gastronomic excellence can weather any storm. Now, the Michelin-starred chef simply wants to reduce his workload and spend more time with his family: his second child is due to be born soon.
An important legacy for the new chef
After the summer break, scheduled to last until the end of August, the restaurant will reopen its doors with a new face in the kitchen. The Barth family has announced the arrival of a talented 31-year-old chef who trained at the Italian Chef Academy and has experience in some of the world's most renowned restaurants: the three-star restaurant La Pergola di Heinz Beck and the legendary Traube Tonbach. The name of the new chef has not yet been revealed, but the challenge is clear: to take up Schmitt's legacy and continue on the path of excellence, while bringing a fresh and personal vision.
Young stars are rising: the Barth family philosophy
Investing in young talent is a philosophy that has always characterized the management of the Favorite Parkhotel. Suffice it to say that in 2010, Tim Meierhans, at just 26 years old, earned the first Michelin star for the establishment. Four years later, in 2014, it was the turn of Philipp Stein, who at 24 became Germany's youngest Michelin-starred chef. A clear and consistent editorial line that focuses on passion, dedication, and long-term vision. And today, after Schmitt's departure, it is being renewed with a new chapter.
A restaurant that renews itself in the spirit of continuity
Before reopening, the restaurant at the Favorite Parkhotel will be renovated: a new look, a revamped menu, but the same attention to detail and hospitality that have made it famous. The reopening is scheduled for August 27, marking the beginning of a new era for the hotel's cuisine. With the departure of Tobias Schmitt and the arrival of the new chef, an important cycle comes to an end, but an equally promising one begins.
