Leonel Pereira is a renowned chef from the Algarve who holds a Michelin star, but few will know that, in the 90s, he was also a marine. Decades later, the cook revived some memories, when he received a team of trainers from the Escola de Tecnologias da Armada to, together, kick off, in gastronomic terms, to the Navy Day which, this year, is celebrated in Faro.
The Navy military team and Leonel Pereira's team carried out the entire meal preparation process, from the purchase of fresh products to the presentation at the table.
«The sharing of knowledge, the exchange of experiences in an atmosphere of camaraderie were the dominant notes», says the Navy, in a note sent to the press.
From his days as a marine, between 1990 and 1991, the chef has great memories, not hesitating to say that they were decisive years for the construction of his career, «based on values such as determination, resilience, the spirit of mutual help and leadership ».
Born in Pessegueiro/Martim Longo (Alcoutim), Leonel Pereira has already had a 30-year career, nationally and internationally, distinguished with the highest decorations.
He was executive chef at hotels such as the Sheraton, the Meridian, the Orient-Express, the Pestana, the Pousadas de Portugal
Since 2014, he has also combined the kitchen with CCMAR – Centro de Ciências do Mar of the University of Algarve, where he has participated in several projects as a researcher.
He worked, from 2013 to 2020, at the São Gabriel Restaurant, in Almancil, being distinguished, in 2014, with his first Michelin Star.
In early 2020, it opened its “Checkin-Faro by Leonel Pereira” and, at the end of that same year, he was recognized with a “Bib Gourmand” by the Michelin Guide.
Comments