Chef Spotlight: TIBOR KOGLER of La Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels in NYC

Tibor Kogler is the Executive Chef at La Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels on the Lower East Side of New York City. This chic new wine bar specializes in small plates that compliment their incredible selection of wines from around the globe. Kogler has created a menu that is approachable and creative with a focus on farm-fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Kogler has served as the Executive Chef at North Plank Road Tavern in Newburgh, New York, Le Express in Poughkeepsie, New York and at Tavern on the Gunks in Ellenville, New York. His work has consistently earned him rave reviews from a variety of impressive publications. He brings an exceptional amount of talent and expertise to his position at La Compagnie des Vins Surnaturals.

Broadwayworld.com had the opportunity to interview Chef Tibor Kogler about his career and La Compagnie des Vins Surnaturals.

What was your earliest interest in cooking?

From childhood I have been interested in cooking. It started with hunting in Hungary. We would kill the pig, butcher it and then make sausages and terrines.

Who were some of your career mentors?

First and foremost was my grandmother. And the great chefs have influenced me also. Chef Michael Psilakis, Chef Constantine Kalandranis, Chef Collin Alevras from the Tasting Room, and Chef Bill Telepan.

What culinary styles have influenced your career?

The free-style cooking with an approach to the best and freshest ingredients has influenced me the most.

What do you consider the most distinguishing features of your work as a chef? You can mention how your personal culinary approach is unique or a few signature dishes.

I like to call it "Ingredient Inspired", where I utilize and get motivated by what's in front of me.

What is your favorite meal?

My favorite meal is country bread with pork belly that has been fried then confit. It is a fantastic Hungarian dish with tomatoes that is fatty, acidic and simple.

Tell me a little bit about your restaurant for our readers.

We go to the market 4 times a week and get the rest from farms. Our core menu consists of charcuterie, tartares, and signature dishes like toad in a hole. It is a great French/Hungarian inspired melange.

La Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels is located at 249 Centre Street, New York, NY 10013. For more information visit www.compagnienyc.com or call (212) 343-3660.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Tibor Kogler

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