El Cerdo is proud to welcome Chef Fermin Mendoza as its new Head Chef, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the restaurant. With more than two decades of experience in the culinary industry, Mendoza brings a distinctive vision that honours tradition while embracing a fresh, innovative approach to cooking.

The Spanish tapas restaurant, based in Bourne End Marina and overlooking the River Thames, has built a name for itself as a taste of Spain brought to Buckinghamshire and Berkshire. With many returning locals and excellent reviews, El Cerdo is ready to welcome everyone to the table to enjoy the vibrant community atmosphere and new flavours coming this spring.

Originally from Spain, Chef Mendoza began his culinary journey in Madrid at the renowned seafood restaurant El Gran Barril, where he developed a deep appreciation for high-quality ingredients and bold flavours that define Spanish cuisine. He soon worked his way to Michelin-star standards at Restaurante Arzak, a three-Michelin-star restaurant in San Sebastián, widely regarded as one of the world’s great culinary capitals.

This experience proved transformative. Immersed in a culture of innovation and high-level gastronomy, Chef Mendoza expanded his culinary perspective, learning to approach classic dishes with creativity while maintaining respect for their origins.

After returning to London, he began developing his own voice as a chef, discovering a passion for creating original dishes and designing menus that combine technique, flavour, and presentation. The award-winning Sportsman Casino (formerly Zaman Restaurant) was the first place to showcase Mendoza’s innovative
menu creation, which has since evolved into unique Michelin-quality dishes across a collection of fine dining establishments in Spain and England.

Mendoza says that through his experience in these diverse kitchens and alongside world-class chefs, he has developed the ability to “think outside the box” when it comes to culinary invention. Here, he honed the discipline, precision, and attention to detail that define world-class kitchens, including at the two-Michelin-star Bibendum in London and, most recently, The Latymer in Surrey, which holds a Michelin star and five AA Rosettes.