Masterful plate art: This is how your dish becomes an experience!
Discover the art of plate presentation in fine dining with tips from Rosina Ostler and the wabi-sabi style.

Masterful plate art: This is how your dish becomes an experience!
At a time when finesse and attention to detail are very popular, Rosina Ostler, head chef at the renowned restaurant “Alois” in Munich, has brought the art of plate presentation into focus. She will be holding master classes on this topic at the upcoming Rolling Pin Convention, in which she will address the importance of “plate language.” In their understanding, the plate is not only a simple place to serve food, but also an expression of the chef's personality. “The plate is an extension of the voice of the dish,” she explains, pointing to the philosophy of wabi-sabi, which celebrates the beauty of imperfection and calls for a return to simpler, authentic forms, as Radio Herford reports.
In her master classes, Ostler uses monochrome color schemes to achieve a tidy and elegant presentation of the dishes. Important design elements that every chef should keep in mind are geometric shapes and the use of at least two colors or monochrome shades. In addition to an asymmetrical arrangement with an odd number of elements, it is important to layer the ingredients in an attractive way and only fill the plate two-thirds so that the eye has something to see.
The Wabi-Sabi philosophy in fine dining
What exactly does wabi-sabi mean, and how can this aesthetic be incorporated into the kitchen? Originating from the Japanese tea ceremonies of the 16th century, this style is not only hip but also a true philosophy. Wabi-Sabi focuses on natural materials, simplicity and an appreciation of imperfection. This means that cracks and wear are not hidden, but rather viewed as signs of history and character. Adapting these principles in gastronomy could lead to a serene and authentic dining experience that also has a place in modern restaurants, as Robern notes.
Furthermore, Wabi-Sabi can be applied not only to plate presentation, but also to the entire ambience of a dining area. Wabi-sabi dining rooms are characterized by calm color palettes, natural materials like wood and stone, and handcrafted objects. This calming environment not only promotes a relaxed atmosphere, but also connects people with nature and the simple pleasures of food, which Elegant Home Ideas demonstrate.
Practical tips for the perfect presentation
Showcasing dishes in an appealing way for social media is a must these days. Agnes Prus, an experienced food stylist, recommends deliberately using clutter. Simple tips for taking photos can make the difference. A clear focus on the ingredients and experimentation with light and angles breathes a breath of fresh air into every presentation. There are also practical kitchen aids: from delicate tweezers to serving rings and squeeze bottles for precise serving. If you also want to practice preparing things in everyday life, you can do this in a playful way over breakfast with muesli.
With these valuable insights from talented chefs and stylists, it is clear that attention to detail and attention to imperfection are of great importance in both food art and interior design. Wabi-Sabi is not only a design trend, but also a way of life that can transform the everyday into the extraordinary.