i. Biography
Coming Up
The foundational work begins at Escola de Hotelaria e Turismo do Estoril, where André Cruz picked up the basic discipline that later had to hold up under service. The first kitchen years at Vírgula Restaurant and Bica do Sapato Restaurant (until 2009) introduced the repetition and pressure that sit behind any serious line cook’s progression. At Feitoria Restaurant in Lisbon (2015–2022), the souschef role sharpened the same discipline into something more exacting. That stretch through the ranks matters less as narrative than as evidence of accumulated range: a long apprenticeship in timing, pace and kitchen standards before the move into the top post. Since 2022, the executive chef seat at Feitoria Restaurant has given André Cruz the room to work with continuity rather than display. The cooking reads as process-led and ingredient-led, with restraint doing the same work that decoration usually tries to do.
Where They Are Now
The current plates sit close to touch. Potato Sauce; Spirulina Cracker; Melon Popsicle; Boi capado, espinafres, cogumelos e trufa; and Memória de verão — amendoim, algas e merengue all name their terms plainly, with ingredients and texture carrying the brief. That pantry runs from coast to market: shellfish, Sea Urchins, seaweed, rice, mushroom, beetroot, melon, potato, spirulina, truffle and beef. In André Cruz’s hands, the combinations point to sequence as much as flavor, with briny, earthy, sweet and vegetal notes set against one another in a controlled register. The method does not need ornament to read clearly.
Signature
André's signature dishes include Seafood Pot-au-feu, Striped Red Shrimp, Mushroom and Beetroot Rice with Sea Urchins, Potato Sauce, and Spirulina Cracker.
Profile updated July 2026
FAQ
Asked of André
What is André Cruz's current role?
André Cruz is Executive Chef.
Where did André Cruz train or study?
André Cruz trained at Escola de Hotelaria e Turismo do Estoril.
What recognition has André Cruz received?
Academia Internacional de Gastronomia — Chef do Futuro.
