The Lion Chef - Olaf Kohrsmeyer is a seasoned hospitality professional and culinary enthusiast with over two decades of experience in the food and beverage industry. As a graduate of the Business School of Economics for Hotel and Restaurant Management, Olaf’s career spans a variety of international and local establishments, including running a vibrant restaurant in Miami. Driven by a deep love for culinary artistry and a commitment to creating memorable dining experiences, he brings a fresh, approachable perspective to every meal and drink. His passion for food and beverage shines through in the thoughtful details, from flavor combinations to presentation, making each event an opportunity to connect and celebrate.
As the author of ENTERTAIN WITH FLAVOR - THE MASTER PLAN and the creator of the food block The Lion Chef, Olaf’s mission is to inspire home cooks to embrace the art of cooking and the joy of gathering around the table. He believes that home-cooked meals offer a more intimate, cost-effective, and creative experience than dining out. For him, food and drinks are not just sustenance—they are a way to bring people together, create memories, and celebrate life’s moments.
Olaf’s philosophy has been shaped by his extensive travels across the Caribbean, South America, and beyond, where he immersed himself in the vibrant food cultures of places like Jamaica, Mexico, Guatemala, Cuba, Malaysia, and Puerto Rico. These journeys deepened his appreciation for how food connects people, from the bustling street food markets to restaurants where locals gather to share stories. He also explored the rich histories and distillation processes of local spirits like rum and tequila, learning how these drinks have become a cornerstone of social and cultural life.
As a passionate photographer, Olaf personally captured all the stunning images featured in ENTERTAIN WITH FLAVORS - THE MASTER PLAN. His love for both food and photography shines through the book, elevating it from a mere cookbook to a visual and culinary journey. Each recipe is brought to life not only with step-by-step guidance but with magazine-style layouts and photography that highlight the flavors, colors, and artistry of each dish and cocktail.
For Olaf, the kitchen is more than a workspace—it’s the heart of the home, where creativity flourishes and relationships grow. Through his book and his culinary expertise, he seeks to empower others to explore the beauty of home cooking, experience the joys of hosting, and discover the profound impact that food and drink have on bringing people together.