A Shock to the Culinary World: Beloved Star Chef Steffen Disch Dies at 53
Steffen Disch's untimely death during a cross-country skiing event leaves friends, family, and fans mourning the loss of a remarkable talent in the culinary scene.
Steffen Disch, a well-known TV and Michelin-starred chef, has shocked the culinary community following his sudden passing at the age of 53. The Freiburg-based chef was renowned for his culinary skills, particularly at his restaurant Kuro Mori, where he delighted guests with exquisite Asian cuisine since 2020.
According to reports from Badische Zeitung, Disch suffered a heart attack while skiing in the picturesque Black Forest on March 3, 2025. This unforeseen tragedy has reverberated through both his personal and professional spheres. "I still can’t believe it," expressed fellow chef Sascha Stemberg, addressing his grief in a heartfelt Instagram post.
Disch’s influence extended beyond his restaurants, having captivated audiences through his appearances on the Kabel Eins television show Aufgedischt since 2017. Throughout the show, Disch showcased his culinary expertise by sharing recipes with viewers, including his secrets for making the perfect schnitzel.
His restaurant journey began at Gasthaus zum Raben in Horben, which he operated from 2005 until its closure in 2023, earning a Michelin star in 2014. The news of Disch's death has brought together an outpouring of condolences from friends, associates, and the wider culinary community.
Christian Bau, another chef prominent in the industry, expressed his sorrow on Instagram: "We are all shocked & affected! Our heartfelt condolences to the family and staff. Our thoughts are with you. Have a good last journey, dear Steffen," reflecting the sentiments of many.
His restaurant Kuro Mori’s team shared their grief on their website, stating, "Steffen is no longer with us. He filled Kuro Mori with his life and laughter and made it a special place in Freiburg with his charming personality… We will deeply miss his big laugh! His unwavering optimism will always guide us forward."
Bobby Bräuer, a guest judge from the television cooking competition The Taste, also expressed his condolences, wishing strength for Disch's family during this tough time. Another fellow chef, Björn Swanson, reflected on Disch’s personality, saying, "I remember our 4 Hands Dinner together and the lovely evenings. A man with strong opinions and an incredible heart. You will be missed. Rest in peace."
The culinary community, still reeling from Disch's loss, also mourns the recent passing of Katja Burghardt, a former member of the Kocharena jury who died at 62. Disch’s unexpected death has only amplified the sense of kinship within the industry as many honor his memory and legacy.
As fans and colleagues continue to pay tribute to Steffen Disch, it is evident that his talent, charm, and the joy he brought to the culinary arts will be deeply missed. If anything, his journey reminds us of the fragility of life and the bonds we form through food and passion.
