Portuguese celebrity Chef Cláudio Cardoso has been appointed as Culinary Director at the iconic SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences. Home to a host of truly enriching and elevated experiences, via its portfolio of diversely distinct luxury brands, SLS Dubai is the perfect match for Chef Cardoso’s culinary philosophy and approach, which sets him apart. Chef Cardoso will be bringing with him a wealth of global experience from some of the world’s best-loved fine dining establishments as well as a bold approach and creativity with food which is showcased in his spectacularly inventive dishes.

“We are thrilled to be welcoming Chef Cardoso to the SLS Dubai family,” says Spencer Wadama, General Manager of SLS Dubai. “Chef Cardoso’s culinary talent will elevate the dining scene at SLS Dubai, offering new and interesting dining experiences for our guests. His varied culinary experience, skillset, and modern take on different dishes and cuisines are the perfect match for the SLS Dubai.”

Born in South Africa, raised in Portugal, Cláudio’s first foray with food was the blend of South African and Portuguese cuisines and flavours in his family home. At the age of 15, Cláudio pursued his formal culinary education in Portugal, which led to multiple work opportunities at several five-star restaurants in Peru, Milan, South Africa, London, and finally to Dubai. His impressive portfolio includes the Armani Hotel Dubai, The Ritz-Carlton in Lisbon, London’s SUSHISAMBA where he was the Group Executive Chef, as well as the Michelin starred restaurant in The Ritz-Carlton, Midori, where he was the Executive Chef.

“I have always been a fan of the SLS brand so it is an absolute honour to join the team here in Dubai – I am extremely proud to be a part of such a fun project,” says Chef Cláudio. “SLS Hotels are true game-changers in the hospitality industry, and I am looking forward to bringing some of my own work and style to this incredible hotel.”

The natural world and different cultures serve as Chef Cláudio’s main sources of inspiration, constantly providing the spark for new culinary concepts. As well as creating food-art in the kitchen Chef Cláudio is also an artist, a skill that is clearly reflected in his food creations. Constantly seeking and finding new influences for dishes and menus, you will often find Cláudio exploring food markets – savouring aromas and marvelling at the vibrant array of colours, textures, and tastes on display, searching for a dish rooted in culture and tradition, that he can re-create in his own kitchen.

Chef Cardoso’s love for the natural world extends beyond the kitchen and into his numerous volunteering roles. This includes being a proud ambassador for Cool Earth, a non-profit organisation, patroned by Dame Vivienne Westwood, which raises awareness against deforestation and climate change. Learning from experience, Cláudio is adamant about undertaking a sustainable approach in the kitchen.

Chef Cardoso’s impressive professional journey has had a dramatic impact on his mastery of a host of different cuisines. Working closely with Chef Jaimie, Chef de cuisine of Carna, and Chef Sara, Chef De Cuisine of Fi’lia, Cláudio will be adding his expertise to the incredible culinary talent at SLS Dubai. He will also oversee the opening of SLS’s newest culinary venture, 12 Chairs Caviar Bar. Chef Cardoso’s culinary expertise, combined with his own personal journey will bring a unique and exciting blend of flavours to food at the SLS Dubai.