Chef Mark Royer, Café Liefde, Syracuse

Chef Mark Royer

by Loren Shaum

Starting as a dishwasher in Louisiana, this former Ragin’ Cajun got his first cooking gig at New Orleans’ iconic Ruth’s Chris Steak House. That led to his first chef position at Rips On The Lake in Mandeville, Louisiana.

Alove for Notre Dame eventually brought him to LAKElife Country where he landed at The Pier and Back Porch Restaurant in Oakwood Resort.

Now, he and partner Elizabeth Kennedy are venturing into a new endeavor: Café Liefde (meaning ‘love’ in Dutch), in a circa 1892 revamped building in downtown Syracuse. Opening in early July, this unique cafe will offer wholesome farm-fresh food, fresh-squeezed juices, and craft cocktails.

LAKELife readers, meet Chef Mark Royer.

What made you decide to become a Chef?

I worked in the service industry during high school and college, and after receiving my hospitality degree from the University of Louisiana-Lafayette, I received much encouragement from three friends at Nash’s Restaurant in Broussard. So, I decided to go to culinary school.

How did you end up in northern Indiana?

I was working with Bonefish (Grill) to set up new restaurants and train staff. My boss had a connection with the food and beverage manager at Oakwood Resort. So, I interviewed and was hired in 2014. After two weeks of observing the kitchen, I became executive chef.

As a chef, what do you like most?

Teaching others what I’ve learned over the years

What’s your favorite cuisine?

I grew up around all-things-French. So, classic French cuisine is my favorite.

What’s your favorite thing to eat?

A cheeseburger, medium rare!

What gives you the most satisfaction?

Seeing people enjoying themselves through food, spirits, and gathering. made with love

Café Liefde

105 W. Main St., Syracuse 574.529.2393, Cafe-Liefde.com

What is your cooking philosophy?

Put a lot of love in every dish.

What aspirations do you have for the new café?

To provide clean, wholesome food and beverages in a relaxing, casual, fun atmosphere— ideal for both families and adults.

Why did you decide on Syracuse?

We wanted a small town feel and enjoy the summer vibe that Syracuse offers. We discovered that this building was available and decided it would be a great project for us!

Your new menu doesn’t have any Cajun dishes?

We plan to serve dishes like gumbo and other items as daily specials. We are also planning daily vegan specials.

What are your favorite lake activities?

We purchased a tandem kayak and really enjoy cruising the Syracuse and Wawasee lake channels— watching for turtles and birds. We take it out every chance we get!

What are some of your hobbies?

I like all board games, and chess is my favorite. That’s followed by European soccer, and travel and cooking together.

What else would you like to share with readers?

Live with harmony and love!