Paulo Morais

Paulo Morais stands as one of Portugal's most distinguished pioneers of Japanese cuisine, having dedicated over three decades to mastering the intricate art of oriental gastronomy. Beginning his culinary journey in 1994 after graduating from the Escola de Hotelaria de Lisboa, Morais was already recognized as an expert in sushi and Japanese cuisine long before these culinary traditions became mainstream in Portugal.

As the chef-owner of Kanazawa in Lisbon, Morais has elevated traditional Japanese kaiseki cuisine to extraordinary heights, earning the restaurant its first Michelin star in 2023. His approach to Japanese cooking is deeply rooted in authenticity and tradition, with a particular expertise in kaiseki—the Japanese equivalent of fine dining that emphasizes seasonal ingredients, precise technique, and artistic presentation.

Throughout his 28-year career, Morais has become widely regarded as the Portuguese chef most specialized in oriental cuisine. His dedication to the craft was formally recognized in 2022 when he received the prestigious Cutipol Career Special Award, voted by a panel of 25 distinguished chefs. At Kanazawa, he continues to showcase his mastery of traditional Japanese techniques while maintaining the highest standards of culinary excellence that have made him a respected figure in Portugal's gastronomic landscape.