Macdonald Monchique Resort & Spa, a five-star resort in the Western Algarve, Portugal has appointed award-winning Luís Batalha as its new Executive Head Chef.
With over 20 years’ experience in contemporary cuisine and management, Batalha will be managing the culinary offerings at the resort’s several restaurants and bars; O Mercado Culinário, Mon-Chic, Pizzeria Da Serra, Petiscaria, Mezzanine Bar and Cascata Bar. From fine-dining and casual eating options to traditional Portuguese cuisine, the property’s diverse food scene appeals to all types of travellers, from couples to families to groups of friends. Portugal, which has previously been underestimated in terms of its gastronomy, is an emerging foodie destination. With eight Michelin-starred restaurants in the Algarve alone, it is now being recognised for its exceptional unique and healthy European cuisine. Batalha will be focusing on creating healthy menus to cater for guests with specific dietary requirements and to coincide with the wellness retreats that the resort will be hosting.
Batalha was born in Mozambique and began his gastronomic career in 1993. Between 2000 and 2007, he won several distinctive honours, including Chef of the Year prize by the Helmut Ziebell Innovation.
Having started his career at Four Seasons Hotel Ritz in Lisbon, he then worked as Executive Head Chef at a range of other luxury Portuguese properties including: Convento do Espinheiro Luxury Collection Évora, Suites Alba Resort Algarve, Cascade Wellness & Lifestyle Resort Algarve and JJW Hotels and Resorts Algarve, where he developed a signature style for Portuguese and Mediterranean flavours.
Batalha comments: “I am extremely excited to join the team at Macdonald Monchique Resort and Spa. Not only is the property located in one of the most beautiful places in Portugal, it has an excellent reputation and its diverse dining offering allows me to put my own creative spin on the menus. I will be using locally-sourced food products to ensure the dishes I prepare are authentic and unique.”
Macdonald Monchique Resort & Spa is a five-star resort in the western Algarve surrounded by unspoilt countryside and breath-taking mountain and coastline views. With such an unbeatable location, guests are encouraged to explore the region as well as indulge in the luxurious spa, high-end dining options and a variety of experiences available at the resort including a selection of wellness classes, outdoor family pool and kids club, and facilities and services for cyclists.
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