Breaking Bread with Luiz Filipe
Nestled within whispering distance of Brazil’s Iguassu Falls, Restaurant Y pays tribute to the region’s deep connection with water. Meet Luiz Filipe, the Michelin-starred chef at the helm, who is dedicated to showcasing his country’s rich culinary traditions on the most dramatic natural stage.
In the region of Brazil that is home to Iguassu Falls – a spectacular waterfall system stretching nearly 3km in width – water holds spiritual power. It feels only right that a new culinary opening here, Restaurant Y (pronounded ‘ee’), draws its name in homage to this precious element.
Y is partly inspired by the Y-shaped confluence where the Paraná and Iguaçu rivers meet near the falls, marking the borders of Argentina, Paraguay and Brazil. In Guarani, the indigenous language of the area, "Y" also means water, however. In a single letter, this new restaurant at Belmond’s Hotel das Cataratas unites borders, respects local cultures, and captures the essence of the area’s natural beauty and resources.
At the helm of this exciting culinary project is Chef Luiz Filipe, whose illustrious career has been driven by his love for Brazil and its produce. He’s primarily known for one of the best restaurants in Brazil, the two Michelin star restaurant Evvai in São Paulo, which was ranked at #22 in Latin America’s Best 50 restaurants in the most recent poll. His deep expertise and passion for Brazilian terroir have now found a new home at Y – nestled in the heart of the Atlantic rainforest, with the thundering majesty of Iguassu Falls as its backdrop (also known as Iguazú Falls or Iguaçu Falls).
Accessible by a panoramic terrace within Hotel das Cataratas, A Belmond Hotel, the restaurant boasts spectacular views of the falls which harmonise beautifully with the surrounding UNESCO world heritage site. Upon entering – with the ambient sound of the cascading water still discernible – you might pause at the bar to enjoy revisited Brazilian cocktails such as the cachaça-forward Rabo de Galo and the Brazilian cognac-laced Maria Mole, as well as signature drinks crafted with local ingredients.
Chef Luiz Filipe has designed a menu for Y that celebrates the richness of rainforest ingredients and the country's most iconic dishes. From cupuaçu to coxinha, moqueca to tucupi, each dish offers a taste of Brazil’s culinary heritage, elevated to its finest form.
In the video linked below, watch as Chef Luiz delves into his culinary inspirations and influences, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Iguassu National Park.
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