opened in 1999 by Alex Atala with the aim of changing the modern history of Brazilian cuisine. At that time, many of the restaurants in São Paulo disdained the country's own larder: ingredients such as açai, pupunha or cupuaçu were out of favour. Atala chose to capture the true essence of Brazil, with all its flavours, colours, textures and smells, of course; in other words, to celebrate what his country produces.
As a result of his pioneering approach, the chef boosted demand among the most renowned restaurants in the country for these ingredients grown by the indigenous communities. Atala has also played a key role in discovering and promoting ingredients through expeditions to the Amazon, alongside scientists and anthropologists.
Eduardo Tobón, President of Diners Club International, says: “Alex Atala helped the world rediscover the treasures of Brazil, bringing the endlessly diverse and exciting flavours of the Amazon into full focus. He is an artist in the kitchen, and the guide to a new frontier of cuisine. Diners Club International is proud to honor Atala’s imprint on the culinary world and celebrate his contributions to global dining.”
Finally, at the awards ceremony on September 3rd, other prestigious awards will be presented such as the Veuve Clicquot Latin America's Best Female Chef 2014 and a brand new award: Latin America’s Best Pastry Chef, sponsored by Cacao Barry.
