Chef News is sponsored by The Kitchen Porters Club
El Pirata, Mayfair’s oldest tapas bar, is pleased to announce the appointment of Daniel Ribeiro as its new Head Chef.
With a distinguished background that includes training at the world famous Institute Le Cordon Bleu cookery school in Marylebone, Daniel joins El Pirata as former head chef Rossi Simbana steps down after 30 years.
Born in Sao Paolo Brazil, Ribeiro has spent more than a quarter of a century in kitchens across the globe, influencing his work over the years. After completing his training in London, Ribeiro worked his way up to be Group Executive Chef of the five restaurants in London’s pioneering Ceviche Group and most recently Head Chef of vibrant Soho taqueria La Bodega Negra.
“I was really pleased to join El Pirata,” Daniel said. “The restaurant business is tough and El Pirata has been open and serving customers for 32 years. Not everybody can do that. It’s like a family, and the staff took me in as part of the family on day one. El Pirata has been open all these years because of how it looks after customers. So, if a customer asks for something and I can do it, I will do it. I will do whatever I can to satisfy our customers, which I know is the El Pirata way.”
At El Pirata, Ribeiro will focus on preserving the restaurant’s longstanding identity and robust loyal client base, while introducing thoughtful contemporary touches to classic Spanish dishes. Alongside this focus, he has begun introducing a selection of off-menu specials, offering guests subtle new additions without compromising the restaurant’s established identity.
Jose Rodrigues, El Pirata’s Patron, said: “It’s a real pleasure to have Daniel join the team. Like me, he is a family man, and he joins our extended family of customers, staff and suppliers. Here’s to the next 30 years.”
Founded in 1994, El Pirata has served authentic Spanish cuisine from its tucked-away spot on Down Street. From its early days as a modest tapas bar, it has grown into one of London’s most enduring Spanish dining institutions, beloved by locals, regulars and visitors alike for its unpretentious hospitality, impressive Spanish wine list and lively, genuine atmosphere.
Chef News is sponsored by The Kitchen Porters Club
