When legendary chef Nobu Matsuhisa crowns one worthy of joining his global Nobu Family, it’s a chef’s culinary fairy-tale come true. When one of them happens to be the group’s first female executive chef, awe-inspiring doesn’t even quite cover it.
Eleni Manousou depicts the very essence of a pioneer in a massively, male commanded industry, where she reigns in her golden title. Chef Eleni has run the celeb sanctuary in Marbella with meticulous precision, post her prestigious, personal training from the maestro chef Matsuhisa himself twelve years ago. Just when this couldn’t get any more honourable, she also proudly stands as one of just two executive chefs in Spain’s Andalusia region.
The Nobu group boasts an illustriously glamorous and global portfolio of Matsuhisa’s hotels and restaurants, showcasing the ‘ultimate destination lifestyle experience’. Be it the enchanting culture haven of Barcelona, glittering neon dazzle of Las Vegas, or the gastronomical beach odyssey of Marbella, the Nobu teams invite their guests on an epicurean journey of rock shrimp tempura, Chilean wagyu, and lychee martinis enveloped in a decadent Japanese ambience encompassing traditional, yet modern grandeur.
I hit the winning prize with an invitation to the stunning hotel in Marbella, where I caught up with chef Eleni to hear more, whilst unable to resist indulging myself with the restaurant’s signature Omakase menu.
Tell us a little about yourself and your extraordinary journey, to get to where you are today.
I was born and raised in Greece in Athens, but my roots belong to the two stunning islands of Kythira and Zakinthos. Since childhood, I have watched my grandma cook mouth-watering classical dishes and desserts. Cooking had always been a part of my life, but as a hobby, I did actually try to get into the army but, ultimately, the kitchen won the final war! (haha).
Right from the beginning of this culinary journey, I’ve frequently travelled to get that first-hand feel of different cultures and people. With Nobu its been an incredible twelve years taking me all around the world, from the heritage rich oasis of Athens to the lavish glamour of Dubai; and now needless to say, you will find me as the executive head chef in Nobu, Marbella.
What or who inspired you to become a chef?
My inspiration comes from my family. My grandmother and mother were undoubtedly the best chefs in the house! With them by my side, I started with all the base standards of cooking and really respecting the ingredients. To create a dish from scratch by literally just working with whatever was in the fridge and actually produce something that made my grandmother and mother proud, is literally an amazing feeling.
Describe a typical day in the Nobu kitchen.
Typical day…? The magic of my work are the daily challenges that we face everyday, I don’t really have a typical day. Upon reaching the restaurant I start with that all-important coffee, check the reservations of the day and off I go. Organising the staff, kitchen preparation and daily food specials meetings with the managers and waiters of course forms part of the daily routine not forgetting the all important service, but we always expect and keep ourselves ready for some new challenge to be thrown at us.
Chef Nobu Matsuhisa is hailed as a global culinary legend, how does it feel to be the first female executive chef to join his prestigious group?
I feel very proud, it truly is a unique experience and an amazing opportunity. Words couldn’t express what a momentous honour it is to be part of his Nobu family.
What are the biggest challenges for a woman to be taken seriously in this predominantly, male dominated world?
Proving you are strong enough to handle the pressures definitely comes top, although gradually I have seen that that change over the years and women are finally getting the recognition they deserve.
The black cod is always considered Nobu’s signature dish, what is your personal favourite from the menu?
Definitely the yellow tail sashimi jalapeno with yuzu soy.
Do you feel Marbella’s own gastronomical scene has evolved?
There’s been a real change in Marbella’s gastronomical scene during the last five years and it’s only getting better. Many new restaurants have opened with incredible chefs and delicious food from fresh seafood beachside dining, fragrant Thai and authentic Indian with all the proper spices. I truly believe Marbella will become one of THE destinations for foodies.
What are the best things about living in Marbella?
Marbella is one of the most beautiful destinations in Spain, the weather is practically an all year round summer and covers everything for visitors. You truly find people from all around the world and walks of life here. There amazing treks amongst nature and the mountains or by the sea, and fun fuelled road trips into Andalusia. As for the nightlife scene, Marbella is anything but legendary with the rooftop cocktail bars, champagne yacht parties and DJ beach clubs, and of course, there’s the food.
When you are not in the kitchen, where can you be found?
I love the sea and nature, so you’ll find me hiking and climbing in the mountains or swimming in the sea. I’m also currently on a road trip mission to explore new places and culture.
What would you do if you weren’t a chef?
When I was young I dreamt of entering the navy, but ultimately food and the kitchen is where I’ve truly found my calling.
What is your ultimate dream?
The dream is to go back to my hometown to open my own place with fresh products from my garden, bring back classically stunning recipes from the old period, and to create treasured memories through life experiences from the village.
