Chefa Jaquelina, private chef
Private chef in the Algarve, born in Angola and trained in Porto, cooking in homes and villas across the region.
My story
Born in Angola, cooking on the Algarve
I'm Jaque, a private chef and the founder of Jaque's Private Chef.
Food has been part of my story since childhood. I grew up in a large family, where cooking meant caring for others, sharing and bringing people together around the table. That is where my passion began, and over time it became my profession.
With more than seven years of experience in gastronomy and professional training at the Porto School of Hospitality, I have developed a style that blends refined technique with warmth and authenticity. Private dining is the way of cooking that represents me best: personal, thoughtful and made with attention to detail.
My cooking
Mediterranean, with Angolan roots
My cooking brings together Mediterranean and African influences, with Angolan flavours and references that are part of my roots and identity. Moamba, dendém, gindungo, cassava and plantain sit next to Algarve fish, olive oil and seasonal vegetables.
It began long before Jaque's Private Chef. One of its first chapters was Comer Terapia da Jaquelina, and the idea behind it is still the line I cook by.
Food is therapy.
For me, food is not only about flavour. It is about atmosphere, emotion and creating memories that stay with people long after the table is cleared.
How I work
Every service led by me
Every experience is created around the client, the occasion and the setting. I lead every service myself, and when the size or complexity of a booking needs it, I work with assistants so the table is looked after while I cook.
I prefer to bring my own tableware and service pieces, because I know them well and they help me keep the presentation of my work. Before a booking in an unfamiliar home, I may ask for a few photos of the kitchen.
Some of the best memories begin around a table
Tell me about your evening, and I will write the menu for it.