When he’s not in the kitchen, Peruvian chef Virgilio shares where he enjoys to dine in Dubai and beyond, plus which area of the world inspires his cooking most.
As chef-owner at Central Restaurante in Lima, Peru, which ranks sixth on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants List, Virgilio is an advocate for Peruvian around the world – including here in Dubai at his City Walk-based restaurant Lima.
He has a Michelin star to his name, is a leading star on the popular Netflix series, Chef’s Table (season three), and at present is easily one of the world’s most accomplished culinary talents.
Here, we ask him to share a little bit about himself.
How did it all start in the kitchen for you?
I wanted to travel and explore the world and working in kitchens allowed me to do this. It was on this journey I discovered my passion for cooking.
Where is your favourite place to eat in Dubai?
ZUMA.
Where’s the best place in the world you have been for its food?
Mugaritz Restaurant, located outside San Sabastian in Spain.
Who is the chef you admire most for their skill and technique?
Andoni Luis Aduriz (Mugaritz Restaurant – as above).
What are your five favourite ingredients?
Lime, aji, salt, fish, and range herbs
Where do you go to find culinary inspiration?
The Amazon of Peru.
