Fischtal Foodlab book classes

Hi, I'm Jem—an avid fermenter, Japanese cook, and certified permaculture designer based in Berlin.

Half Japanese and raised in London, I grew up craving Japanese flavors (and wondering why we didn't eat ramen every day!) Later I fell deep into the world of fermentation, where I discovered the magic of transforming simple ingredients into tangy, nourishing creations with the help of microbes.

For over a decade, I worked as a human rights professional, living across Europe and Asia. Along the way, I cooked, experimented, and refined my techniques. I also gained extensive experience in facilitating workshops—something I now bring into my food practice. Eventually, I founded Fischtal Foodlab to share my passion with fellow food lovers in Berlin, drawing on the flavors, cultures, fermentation traditions I encountered throughout my travels.

To me, food is all about community: bringing people together through flavor, creativity, and hands-on learning. I've always loved working with people—and like in human rights work, this is about making life a little better, one delicious bite at a time.

Come join me in discovering, sharing, and creating something tasty together!