Nuno Mendes

The Largo and Cozinha das Flores

Chef Nuno Mendes is a globally celebrated chef and a pioneering voice in modern gastronomy. Born in Lisbon, his international career includes training in San Francisco and working alongside icons like Wolfgang Puck. He gained renown in London as a culinary innovator.

He is the visionary behind several Michelin-starred restaurants, including Viajante and Mãos. He also shaped London's dining scene through influential projects like Chiltern Firehouse, which he launched and led as Executive Chef for eight years.

His passion for Portugal's culinary heritage is a defining theme. This inspired his acclaimed London restaurant Lisboeta (2022) and Cozinha das Flores in Porto (2023). In 2024, he will open Santa Joana in Lisbon as Culinary Director, further celebrating Portuguese ingredients and culinary history.

My favorite breakfast spot is Mercado do Bulhão. Walking around, speaking to the vendors, and trying the lovely pastries, coffee, and amazing viennoiserie is a real treat. This is my perfect breakfast. Although, there are also amazing independent coffee shops and confeitarias all over town

Even though I work in Porto, I don’t go out much, so I’m sadly missing out on the amazing projects dotted around town. There are some really fun, progressive cafes pouring excellent coffee, as well as some more old-school, established places that are real references. It’s worth the visit—walk the city to discover the hidden treasures popping up everywhere

Nuno Mendes

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