Thomas Namløs Gundersen is born and raised in Gulset, Skien, and began his culinary training at Klosterskogen Upper Secondary School. After many years in the restaurant industry across Norway – including hotels in Oslo and, most recently, the historic Café Engebret – he decided to return to Grenland.
Now he has found his dream workplace: Adminiet on Herøya.
Inspired by his surroundings
Thomas is the sole chef at Adminiet.
"Here I get to be my own master in the kitchen, free to plan my days and shape the menu as I wish, while working in surroundings that inspire me every single day. I’m fascinated by the house, its history, and the garden," says Thomas.
"Life in restaurants is hectic. I’ve learnt a lot and had the privilege of working with talented people, but after a while I felt the need to be closer to my family. That’s why I returned home again," he explains.
When Adminiet advertised for a new chef earlier this year, it was Thomas’ mother who tipped him off. He applied – and has never looked back.
A chef, a house, a future
Thomas has a soft spot for fish and over the years has salted several tonnes of lutefisk. But above all, he is passionate about desserts.
"When you make desserts you can’t cut corners – it’s all about chemistry. I enjoy that precision," he says.
"The new chef has already brought both experience and ideas to the table. Perhaps there will even be a lutefisk evening at Adminiet this autumn," he hints with a smile.
The halibut he presents today weighs around five to six kilos. It will be filleted, turned into stock, and served to guests – nothing will go to waste.
"Halibut at this weight has perfect flesh," Thomas explains.
"I truly thrive here. Imagine being able to work with what you love, in a house full of history, with a view of the fjord. It doesn’t get any better than this," Thomas smiles.
About Adminiet
Adminiet is located by the canal at Herøya, with gardens stretching all the way down to the fjord. The Admini area was built in the 1930s and 40s as a residence and reception venue for Hydro, and is today owned by Yara Norge. Adminiet now serves as a representative venue for industry at Herøya and the wider business community. Contact Adminiet.
Text/photo: Tone Brekke tone.brekke@hipark.no
