René Bollier: Continuing the Tradition of Swiss Chocolate Excellence in Kansas City

René Bollier is the President and Executive Chef of André's Confiserie Suisse. Grandson of founders André and Elsbeth Bollier, Bollier began his training at age 11 under his family's guidance. After attending the University of Kansas, René continued his culinary education training at some of the top chocolate and pastry shops in Switzerland. He and his wife Nancy returned to Kansas City in 2002 to lead the family business into the third generation. The Bollier family remains focused on continuing the André's tradition, producing only the highest quality gourmet chocolates, pastries, tortes and baked goods using time-honored production methods. Nothing inspires René more than simply being in the kitchen, perfecting classic recipes and creating new ones for the community that has made André's a tradition since 1955.  Website: AndresChocolates.com Instagram: @andresswiss In this episode we discuss: How Rene's grandparents opened a Swiss chocolate shop in Kansas City in 1955 How they introduced mid-Westerners to hand-crafted Swiss chocolates Back to the homeland: Rene's training in Switzerland What makes Swiss chocolates unique Hot items: Engadiner nusstortes, chocolate-covered almonds and lackerli cookies Rene's best kitchen tip and advice for budding entrepreneurs And much more!