Page 108 - EMPIRIA 2023

THE ART OF ELEVATED HOSPITALITY I SANTORINI

The renowned French Chef, The entrance of Alati Restaurant at Vedema.
Olivier Campanha, experienced
in leading many Michelin-starred

restaurants, uncovers what
makes the exceptional culinary
experience at the jaw-dropping

balcony of Lure.

You’re known for your creativity and for developing breathtaking views are certainly part of the extraordinary
your own style of cuisine—for choosing exceptional dining experience at Lure. But beyond that, I believe that
ingredients and adeptly combining them to create Santorini’s unique energy also shapes the experience;
exquisitely flavorful, health-forward dishes that also the energy that emanates from the landscape itself but
pay homage to local culinary traditions. How do you also the energy that comes from the people who work
bring this approach to Lure by Olivier Campanha? here, welcoming our guests and taking care of them.
O.C.: At Lure, our cuisine is inspired by Santorini’s distinctive Great dining isn’t just about great food. It’s about crafting
epicurean history and heritage. We combine elements of exceptional epicurean experiences that become cherished
Greek and Mediterranean gastronomy, known for the use memories for the guests.
of fresh seasonal ingredients, and add a French twist. Looking at Lure’s menu, which dish do you feel best
We prioritise sourcing local products from Santorini and captures the restaurant’s spirit?
the surrounding islands, both for their exceptional flavors O.C.: Undoubtedly, the dish that holds the name “Santorini”
and to minimize carbon mileage, and we also replace the embodies the essence of my culinary vision. At its core
butter and cream found in traditional French cuisine with lies the distinctive ingredient of fava, which, contrary to its
Greek extra virgin olive oil and mature cheeses, ensuring association with broad beans elsewhere, refers to a legume
that each dish is not only full of flavor but health-conscious that has been cultivated on Santorini since ancient times.
too. Having resided in Greece for a span of 15 years, all Genuine Santorini fava has become a rarity, challenging to
the memories of the wonderful places I have visited and procure, yet we have managed to secure a supply from a
lived in serve as an inspiration for my culinary creations local producer on the island. Complementing this prized
at Alati. My team is composed of Greek chefs as well, and ingredient are Kariki, an artisanal cheese from Tinos aged
their inspirations are welcomed in the recipes we craft. within a hollowed-out gourd, and caramelized lime. The
Besides exceptional cuisine, ambiance is another marriage of fava and citrus fruit presents an exhilarating
crucial part of the dining experience. What makes Lure combination, while the profound flavor of the cheese
special in terms of atmosphere and setting? harmoniously melds with the velvety texture of the fava,
O.C.: The fantastic location, the design and, of course, the culminating in a truly perfect union. •

Sea and Soil Lobster at Alati.

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