Chefs Club by FOOD & WINE 
Located at The St. Regis Aspen Resort · 315 East Dean Street · Aspen, CO 81611  · 
Phone: 970.429.9581 · 
Email: [email protected]

Chef George Mendes of ALDEA

George Mendes cultivated his culinary knowledge, technique and style over a period of seventeen years. He has had the privilege to work under the guidance of some of the world’s greatest culinary masters before opening his first restaurant, ALDEA, in May 2009. Mendes’ restaurant has won several distinguished awards over the years including a one star rating from the 2011 and 2012 Michelin Guides. In 2011, Mendes was named one of FOOD & WINE magazine’s ten “Best New Chefs”, a highly coveted honor in the culinary industry.

As a Connecticut native, Mendes was surrounded by culinary influences in his own home. Mendes enjoyed a childhood full of home cooked meals inspired by his parent’s native Portugal. After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America in 1992, Mendes worked for David Bouley, his mentor, at the original Bouley in Tribeca. He further tailored his skills in culinary meccas like Paris, San Sebastian and Washington D.C., where he learned many of the techniques he now practices today in his restaurant.

The menu at ALDEA, the Portuguese word for village, is a culmination of Mendes’ Iberian experiences and Portuguese heritage. The meaningful experiences of his varied career are apparent in the rustic yet refined dishes prepared. Diners and critics alike celebrate the seasonal shellfish, rice dishes and Iberian-cured hams served at ALDEA.

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