Chef Harald Sterk was born and educated in culinary arts in Germany. As a new proprietor of Black Forest Mill, wishing Arthur and Dale well as they transition into retirement, he aims to provide you with the great family dining that you have been accustomed to through the years.He dedicated his life to perfecting his culinary art especially in the cuisine of his ancestors. Starting his career at his parents’ restaurant in Germany, he has cooked in the Netherlands, South Africa, Switzerland, France, Canada, Greece and England.
He has held numerous Executive Chef positions in the United States for the Hilton International Hotels and the Westchester Country Club. He has also owned and operated Bavarian Garden Restaurant and Tiffany’s Catering in Middletown and Iwona’s Restaurant in Garnerville. He has won awards in New York, Chicago and New Orleans, catered to many celebrities and dignitaries, and remains active in many culinary organizations. In his 30 year career he has always practiced that the customer’s desires are the most important and loves being a “hands on” chef.As you visit Black Forest Mill, you can expect the menu to include old favorites such as sauerbraten, Jaeger schnitzel, potato pancakes, bratwurst, apple strudel and black forest cake, but also a lot more European and international dishes. Chef Sterk’s wife Iwona is a native of Poland, so you can expect some Polish dishes on the menu as well.

The bar offers traditional German beverages including a selection of German beers on tap. In the spring and summer Black Forest Mill will open its own outside Biergarten and celebrate Oktoberfest in the fall, where you can meet their children, Monica and Christian, operating beer kegs.

A cozy private party room is also available for all occasions. As for the atmosphere, nothing comes closer to the warm feeling of home with a stone fireplace, hand crafted details, a European hutch, beer steins and lace curtains. Chef Sterk and his family are eager to welcome you into their new home.