Cutlery made from butter, edible ceramic potatoes, sugary jewels… I’ve been following Chelsea’s work — an extraordinary combination of art and culinary experiences — for many months. Since 2018, New York-born artist and chef Chelsea Turowsky has established a foothold in Berlin and become an integral part of its creative scene ever since. Whether it’s food and beverage consulting, catering and events, or residencies and omakase dinners in various restaurants, Chelsea has sent waves through Berlin’s creative and culinary scenes with her work. At the end of last year (2023), she announced her latest project: Velella. The new space in Gesundbrunnen — right next to her cooking studio where she has been implementing her food concepts for several years — welcomes us to create new memories together. Velella is designed to be a mutable space. You can host private events there and have Chelsea and her team create a mind-bending concept for the food and drinks, or you can rent the space and kitchen (which is fully equipped) and take the reigns. In the future, pop-ups and workshops where local brands can come together and chefs can use the kitchen will be hosted here. Nevertheless, Velella remains Chelsea’s personal playground and the space reflects the interior of her impressively creative mind: find artifacts collected on her travels, hand-sewn linen cloths, her private collection of ceramics and glassware, muted tones, and silver accents. As in Chelsea’s work, she has created an intimate atmosphere that offers a deep insight into her life and a kitchen that feels informal and light.
Since January, Chelsea has been hosting omakase evenings at Velella on weekends, where you can experience an integral part of Japanese gastronomy. It is Chelsea’s opportunity to surprise her guests and combine the sophistication of fine cuisine with her artistic interpretation and personality. The dishes are precise but spontaneous, and leave room for the new and unknown — remaining one thing above all else: exciting. At Omakase, the chef decides what goes on the plate, so be sure to bring a spontaneous and open mindset along with you. The night will be full of delightful surprises, but one thing’s for certain: as you enter the kitchen with its large terrazzo Chef’s Table and Chelsea greets you with a warm smile, the evening will be a very special one.
Text: Robyn Steffen / Photos: Marie Staggat
Velella by Chelsea Turowsky, Koloniestr., 13359 Berlin–Gesundbrunnen; map
The next Omakase dinners will take place on 09.,15. and 30.03.2024. You can send reservations or rental requests via message on Instagram.
@velella.studio
@chelseaturowsky_
