Miguel Laffan

MIGUEL LAFFAN has been executive chef at the L'AND restaurant, at the L'AND Vineyards Resort in Montemor-o-Novo, Alentejo, since 2011. L'AND’s concept seeks to affirm the new Portuguese gastronomic culture, reflecting both the history and the culture of the Iberian Peninsula, as well as integrating ingredients from the East. Laffan is thus the perfect choice, since his own culinary style is flavoured with Luso-Asian and Middle Eastern inspiration and fresh ingredients. He has a proactive culinary approach and believes that perfection is achieved through detailed research and sheer determination.

Describing his personal culinary philosophy, Laffan says: ‘I believe that it’s a mix of several different factors that I’ve assimilated throughout my personal life and my professional career. Attention to detail and determination are key, and since my cooking is undergoing a constant evolution, I need to research carefully and always ensure that I have top quality products to hand. For me, the freshness of the food is equally as important as the freshness of the mind – this is what really transforms the ingredients into great cuisine.’

Laffan has trained and worked in some of Europe’s most renowned kitchens, including the three Michelin star Fortaleza do Guincho in Cascais, and Le Jardin des Ramparts in Beaune and Le Clous de la Violette in Aix-en-Provence. He has also led teams in landmark hotels including Hotel Casa Velha do Palheiro in Funchal and Hotel Quinta da Casa Branca in Madeira.

Speaking of  L’AND’s Michelin star, won under his leadership this year, Laffan says that the award is not only his, but belongs to the whole team – or family – at the resort. Beyond this, it also belongs to the Alentejo region.