My Culinary Journey in Numbers
The Foundation: Learning Through Adventure
School was never my strong suit—I was polite but restless, believing I could chart my own path. At 15, my father sent me to Austria’s Alps for hospitality training. What started as reluctance turned into passion in those mountain kitchens, where I learned to blend discipline with creativity.
Surrounded by family hospitality pros, I mastered knife skills and pastry, setting the stage for a lifelong pursuit of global flavors.
India: Where Everything Changed
At 16, I roamed India from Himachal Pradesh’s heights to Mumbai’s vibrant streets. Every market was a masterclass in spices—saffron, cardamom, chili—igniting my culinary curiosity.
“The greatest adventures often begin with the words ‘I have no idea what I’m doing’—and that’s exactly where I found myself stepping off a plane in Mumbai with my best friend and a heart full of curiosity.”
— Oliver Mayerhoffer
Oman: Mastering the Craft
From 17 to 20, I honed luxury hospitality in Oman, balancing Middle Eastern spices and mastering Arabic coffee traditions. I learned hospitality is about caring—connecting people through food.
This experience, recognized by local media as “Best Expat Chef,” shaped my approach to crafting authentic, memorable dishes.
Thailand: Where Love and Purpose Converged
In Thailand, I met Natalia, a Siberian cultural navigator. We married in Russia and welcomed Victor in Thailand, blending our cultures into a family adventure fueled by food.
Together, we’ve crafted 250+ recipes, each tested with Victor to ensure they’re kid-friendly and full of global flavor.
Life’s Greatest Lessons
Losing my brother Daniel and my mother reshaped my perspective on life’s preciousness. I taught myself web development and SEO to build Mangoes & Palm Trees, honoring their memory through storytelling.
This platform is a tribute—a way to share authentic flavors and stories with families worldwide.
Mangoes and Palm Trees: Our Family’s Gift to Yours
What began as a family journal grew into a mission: to bring global flavors to your table. Every recipe is tested with Victor (8, turning 9 in November), ensuring they’re kitchen-ready for families.
From Thai curries to Omani spice blends, our dishes carry the stories of 50+ countries, adapted for real home cooks.
Our Family Food Philosophy
Food is the universal language of love. We adapt authentic methods for family life, testing every dish with Victor to ensure it’s delicious, fun, and approachable.
“The greatest adventures are born from life’s most challenging moments—it’s in those times of struggle that we discover our true purpose.”
— Oliver Mayerhoffer
Our Current Chapter
Now based in Vietnam, we’re diving into regional cuisines, from Yunnanese spices to French colonial dishes, crafting guides to make global cooking accessible for every family.
Our journey continues, with plans to explore East Africa and South America next, bringing new flavors to your table.
Ready to Explore Global Flavors?
Let’s Connect
Follow our adventures on Instagram, join us on Facebook, or contact us. I personally read every message.
We respect your privacy. See our Privacy Policy.