Born on May 29, 1991, in Salvador de Bahia, João Diamante is one of the most promising and innovative chefs on the Brazilian culinary scene. Known for his commitment to showcasing Afro-Brazilian cuisine, Diamante has brought the culinary traditions of his homeland to an international audience. His culinary philosophy, rooted in sustainability and cultural heritage, has made him a prominent figure in the global gastronomic landscape. His restaurant, "Diamante do Cozinha," is celebrated for its authenticity and creativity.
The Biography
João Diamante was born on May 29, 1991 in Salvador de Bahia, a city renowned for its rich Afro-Brazilian culture and vibrant culinary traditions. Raised in a modest family, Diamante developed a passion for cooking from an early age, helping his mother and grandmother prepare traditional dishes. This love for food and his roots inspired him to pursue a culinary career. Born João Augusto Santos Batista, the chef received the nickname "Diamante" from a friend when they were children. Diamante became interested in food during his compulsory military service at the age of 17, where he worked as an admiral's cook in the Brazilian Navy.
After completing his studies at the School of Gastronomy of Rio de Janeiro, João honed his skills through work experiences in renowned Brazilian restaurants and abroad, including the prestigious "Oro" of Rio de Janeiro and the "D.O.M." by Alex Atala in Sao Paulo. These experiences shaped him not only as a chef, but also as an ambassador of Afro-Brazilian cuisine.
The turning point in João's career came with the opening of his restaurant "Diamante Gastrobar" in Rio de Janeiro, a place where he celebrates the richness of Afro-Brazilian cuisine. The restaurant has quickly become a destination for gastronomy enthusiasts, known for iconic dishes such as the "Moqueca de Peixe" and the "Acarajé", which Diamante reinvents with a modern twist without betraying their traditional essence. His culinary philosophy is deeply rooted in sustainability and the use of local ingredients, supporting small producers and promoting sustainable agriculture.
Outside of the kitchen, João Diamante is also a fervent social activist. He founded the "Diamante Bruto" project, which offers cooking courses and training opportunities to young people from disadvantaged communities. This commitment has earned him numerous awards, including the "Innovative Chef of the Year" award awarded by the Brazilian Gastronomy Association in 2019.
João's passion for cooking is fueled not only by his desire to innovate, but also by the desire to keep the culinary traditions of his people alive. His words often resonate in his speeches: "Cooking is a journey through time and culture, it is our link with the past and our gaze towards the future". This vision is reflected in every dish he creates, combining history, culture and innovation in a unique culinary experience.
In 2024 Diamante won the 2024 'Champions of Change' award from The World's 50 Best Restaurants, but João Diamante's accolades are not limited to titles. He has participated in international gastronomic events, representing Afro-Brazilian cuisine and bringing the flavors of Bahia to a global audience. His collaborations with internationally renowned chefs have further strengthened his position as one of the leading ambassadors of contemporary Brazilian cuisine.
