Over 40 years of excellence in tourism, now sharing a world of selected flavors.
I believe that cuisine is one of the richest expressions of a people’s culture. For me, a meal goes far beyond nutrition; it is an act of discovery, a celebration of traditions, a moment of genuine connection. It is this conviction that drives Fontes Gourmet and every choice I present here. My quest is for an authentic and memorable experience. It’s not just about technique or renown, but about the chef’s passion, the quality of the ingredients, the atmosphere that surrounds them and the story that each place has to tell. I want this guide to be a source of inspiration and confidence, opening doors to moments that really feed the soul.
~ Emanuel Fontes
My professional career as an entrepreneur in the tourism and congress business spans more than four decades, a path marked by success and recognition throughout Brazil. Alongside this career, I have cultivated two great passions that have always accompanied me: traveling and exploring the rich tapestry of world gastronomy. These hobbies, nurtured with curiosity and a palate that improves with each new experience, have turned me into a born gourmet. An appreciation for fine wines is another pillar of this journey. My personal cellar houses award-winning and internationally renowned labels, perfect companions that harmonize and elevate tastings of the most varied dishes. This passion for oenology culminated in 2010 with the honorable invitation to join the prestigious Confrérie des Chevaliers du Tastevin, based at the historic Clos de Vougeot in Burgundy, France – an institution dedicated to spreading the culture of fine cuisine and wines from that emblematic region. Countless trips to different countries have given me a deep immersion in multiple cultures and the opportunity to taste the most varied cuisines in the world, frequenting a wide range of restaurants, from the most celebrated to the most authentic local hideaways.
It was after accumulating so much experience and knowledge that I felt the desire to share my experiences in restaurants around the world with other connoisseurs of fine dining. Fontes Gourmet was born with the aim of pointing out those establishments that truly stand out, offering opinions and insights that can help you, the reader, make the best decisions and discover places that will enrich your gastronomic journey.
Decades of travel and a demanding palate underpin each nomination.
A passion for wine and participation in prestigious brotherhoods add an extra layer of discernment to evaluations.
As well as my suggestions, this space is open to yours. A nominations forum will allow new restaurants to be suggested by Internet users, which can be part of future evaluations and recommendations in this constantly evolving guide.
This guide is more than a list; it’s an ongoing dialog about the art of eating well and living well, in which your participation is fundamental to discovering the next tasty destinations together.