Interview with Chef Valdir Ramos

Interview with Chef Valdir Ramos – The creator of the menu for Dans le Noir ? Lisboa

CAN YOU INTRODUCE YOURSELF BRIEFLY?

Valdir Ramos: I am Brazilian and have been working at Sheraton for over 20 years. I started as a kitchen intern and, throughout the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work in different cities and countries, developing my culinary expertise.

WHAT IS YOUR CULINARY BACKGROUND?

I studied at Senac Culinary School, one of the most prestigious institutions in Brazil. It is highly valued in the hospitality industry and is a reference for top hotels.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE TYPE OF CUISINE?

Brazilian gastronomy because of its rich diversity of ingredients, techniques, and flavours. However, it has not yet gained the same international recognition as French cuisine, which is considered the foundation of gastronomy, or Italian cuisine, known for its comforting appeal.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR CULINARY STYLE?

I believe in a versatile approach, where I explore all possibilities. Respecting ingredients and their natural flavours is essential. My goal is to elevate ingredients while adding a unique touch to surprise the palate.

WHICH CHEFS INSPIRE YOU?

Two chefs have strongly influenced my career:
Ferran Adrià, who introduced experimental gastronomy by using physics and chemistry to create innovative dishes.
Alex Atala, a Brazilian chef who elevated local ingredients to an international level, promoting the richness of Brazilian cuisine.
I believe we must continue valuing local products.

HOW DO YOU SEE THE CHALLENGE OF CREATING A MENU FOR DANS LE NOIR ? LISBOA?

From the start, I was fascinated by the concept. Nowadays, many people focus only on beautiful restaurants, forgetting the essence of dining: sharing moments, experiencing textures, and savouring flavours.
Crafting a menu for Dans le Noir ? Lisboa was a major challenge because, without sight, taste must be even more refined. Dishes must not only be delicious but also balanced and surprising. I love this concept and believe it truly reconnects people.

WHAT DOES DANS LE NOIR ? MEAN TO YOU?

For me, it is the most unique dining experience we can have. The concept is simple, and achieving that level of simplicity perfectly is challenging. The most important thing is that it brings people together through their senses and the joy of eating.