Daniel Reis, Sous Chef at Renaissance Porto Lapa Hotel, Wins Central Region Stage of Chefe do Ano

Source: A Notícia

Daniel Reis was the winner of the Central region stage of Chefe do Ano, which took place this Monday, April 14, at the Escola de Hotelaria e Turismo do Oeste, in Caldas da Rainha. The 25-year-old sous chef from Renaissance Porto Lapa Hotel stood out among the competitors in a challenge that marks the beginning of the regional phases of the competition.

This stage is part of the 37th edition of Chefe do Ano ("Chef of the Year"), one of the most relevant professional cooking competitions in Portugal, which travels across different regions of the country to select the finalists for the national round.

The menu presented demonstrated technique, consistency, and a strong focus on national products. The proposal included a vegetarian starter of fried corn with Ilha cheese and Madeira, a fish course featuring cod, coriander migas, cockles, and caldeirada, and a meat dish where lamb was paired with cauliflower, Transmontano chorizo, and Carolino rice. The dessert highlighted Rocha pear, combined with honey and walnut crumble, requeijão semifreddo, and Port wine.

Following the announcement of the results of this Central region stage of Chefe do Ano, Daniel Reis expressed his emotion, highlighting the work developed and his intention to present a cuisine that represents Portugal through the authenticity and quality of its flavors.

The competition was evaluated by a jury composed of recognized names in national gastronomy, including António Boia as president, Alexandre Silva, Luís Gaspar, Jorge Fernandes, and Paulo Pinto, who assessed criteria such as technique, creativity, presentation, and consistency.

With the Central stage now concluded, Chefe do Ano moves south, with the next phase scheduled for April 22 at the Escola de Hotelaria e Turismo de Portimão, continuing one of the oldest and most prestigious cooking competitions for professionals in Portugal.