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The Alpina Gstaad
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Crédits : Elisabeta Tudor. Picture: RR

Interview with Andrea Piras: Elevating Sake, Sushi, and Tradition

Andrea Piras, Manager of Megu, reflects on a decade of exceptional dining, earning 16 Gault&Millau points, and how the restaurant has evolved and curated its renowned sake selection.

Having managed Megu for over a decade, how have you seen the restaurant evolve in its offerings and reputation within the upscale dining scene?

When Megu first opened, it was an exciting novelty in Gstaad, and getting a table was difficult because everyone wanted to experience it. Over time, the challenge became transforming that initial excitement into a solid foundation. Now, after 12 years, I believe we’ve succeeded in establishing ourselves as a reliable fixture, appreciated for more than just the novelty we once were.

Can you share insights into how you curate the sake collection at Megu, and what makes it one of the most distinguished selections in Switzerland?

Sourcing rare and high-quality sake can be a challenge, especially from small producers with limited imports. Building a network of fellow enthusiasts has helped. We exchange discoveries, recommend suppliers, and even place collective orders to get access to those hard-to-find bottles. This collaboration broadens our selection and helps us maintain a unique and distinguished sake list.

You’ve travelled extensively in search of the best sakes. Could you tell us about a memorable trip and how it influenced the sake offerings at Megu?

In Japan, many traditional brewers are hesitant to allow visitors during brewing times. However, during my last trip, I was fortunate to experience the craftsmanship of these artisans firsthand. More than learning about sake production, I realised that sake is a wonderful way to understand Japanese cuisine and even global cuisine. It acts as a perfect palate cleanser, allowing flavours to stand out, which has influenced our sake choices at Megu. Each sake we offer brings its own nuances, and we aim to make our selection adaptable to every palate.

With the introduction of the Japanese Whisky Bar at The Alpina Gstaad, how do you think whisky enhances the overall dining experience at Megu?

The Japanese Whisky Bar is an exciting addition to Megu! It introduces a diverse range of top-quality whiskies that complement our menu and elevate the overall dining experience, making each visit even more memorable for our guests.

Looking forward, how do you plan to continue innovating and maintaining Megu’s reputation as one of Switzerland’s top Asian restaurants?

After 12 years, we are proud to have earned 16 points in the Gault&Millau guide. The challenge now is to continue evolving while staying true to our concept. We’ll keep seeking high-quality products and refreshing our offerings, always aiming to deliver an authentic Japanese dining experience.

Warm welcome to the digital magazine of The Alpina Gstaad to discover the secrets of its region and philosophy.

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