Vitaliy Voronchikhin, head chef of Gastrobar in Chișinău, started as a pastry assistant in 2003. He is a BBQ chef and the official Big Green Egg representative in Moldova.
For me, geographic borders have never been obstacles, in life or in creativity. I was born in the small town of Khotyn on the picturesque banks of the Dniester River, but I've always been open to different cultures and experiences.
Am I a traveler? Absolutely, I'm a culinary wanderer! I am Vitaliy Voronchikhin, a BBQ chef, the official representative of Big Green Egg Grill in Moldova and head chef at one of the most successful projects, Gastrobar.
My journey into cooking wasn't extraordinary at first. I studied at school, then at an economics academy in Chișinău, and worked various jobs. But one day I realized that simply doing something was not enough for me. I wanted to create, to cook and to share my passion with others, and that's when my path in gastronomy truly began.
I started as a pastry assistant in 2003, completely fascinated by everything: techniques, ingredients, plating. Over four years, I worked my way up to sous-chef, and within six months I was confidently leading a kitchen on my own.
I don't have a single favorite cuisine. I love the bold colors and natural flavors of Mediterranean dishes, the intricate spice combinations of Middle Eastern cuisine and the smoky magic of American BBQ. My ultimate goal is a satisfied guest with a happy smile.
My biggest supporters are my family, my wife and two daughters. They are my most loyal taste-testers and, of course, my most biased critics.
Outside the kitchen, my passion is cycling, and over time I've even inspired my colleagues to join in. It's amazing to share a journey, whether on a bike or in life, with those who ride at the same pace toward the same goal.
