João Oliveira is the executive chef of Vista restaurant at the Bela Vista Hotel & Spa in Portimão, Algarve, where he has led the kitchen for over a decade. His cuisine is deeply connected to the natural landscape of the Algarve, taking inspiration from the Atlantic Ocean, local produce, and wild herbs.

At Vista, the menu excludes meat entirely — a deliberate choice that highlights the region’s exceptional fish, seafood, and vegetables. This approach reflects both environmental awareness and João’s personal journey with a chronic stomach condition, which led him to remove gluten and dairy from his own diet.

What began as a personal necessity evolved into a new vision of fine dining — one that prioritises wellness without sacrificing creativity or flavour. His dishes are refined, nourishing, and grounded in a strong sense of place. João has collaborated with renowned chefs across Europe and Latin America, and his work continues to shape a fresh and thoughtful culinary voice in contemporary Portuguese cuisine.