
The Pastel de Nata: A Short History of Portugal's Most Famous Pastry
From the cloistered kitchens of Jerónimos Monastery to cafés worldwide, the pastel de nata represents the sweet soul of Portuguese culinary tradition.


Executive Chef at PRRC Restaurants, Former Chef at Michelin-starred Midori
Pedro Almeida is a distinguished Portuguese chef who has made his mark by masterfully blending Portuguese and Japanese culinary traditions. Born in Chaves, in northern Portugal, Almeida's culinary journey began with rigorous training at the prestigious 3-Michelin star restaurant Can Fabes in Sant Celoni, Spain, where he honed his skills under world-class mentorship.
Almeida gained international recognition as the chef behind Midori restaurant at Penha Longa Resort in Sintra, which he opened as Portugal's first Japanese restaurant 25 years ago. Under his leadership, Midori earned a coveted Michelin star, becoming renowned for its innovative fusion of Portuguese ingredients with authentic Japanese techniques. His culinary philosophy centers on the precision and discipline of Japanese cooking methods while celebrating the rich flavors of Portuguese cuisine.
Currently serving as Senior Executive Chef for PRRC (Portuguese Restaurants and Related Concepts) in Macau, Almeida oversees multiple restaurant concepts that celebrate the historic culinary connections between Portugal and Macau. His work continues to bridge cultures through food, drawing on over 20 years of global culinary excellence. Though he has stepped back from day-to-day operations at Midori, he remains as a consultant chef, ensuring the restaurant's legacy continues.
Almeida's cooking is characterized by meticulous attention to detail, innovative fusion techniques, and a deep respect for both Portuguese and Japanese culinary traditions. His dishes reflect a unique gastronomic vision that has influenced a new generation of chefs working at the intersection of these two distinct culinary cultures.

Loco

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Fortaleza do Guincho

YŌSO - Omakase

Malhadinha Nova

SÁLA de João Sá

Belcanto

100 Maneiras

Marlene
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Praia no Parque

Kanazawa

Broto

Grenache

Fifty Seconds

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