Chef Cristian Duhalde is the owner and creative director of La Taverna, a renowned Latin American and Spanish restaurant in Lagos, Nigeria. Originally from Chile, he began his culinary journey in 1996 after training at Le Cordon Bleu in Peru and Intectur in Chile. Over the years, he built his career working in kitchens across Latin America, Europe, Oceania, and Africa—earning accolades like Chile’s National Champion of Chefs in 2004.

In 2008, he moved to Nigeria, bringing his global expertise to celebrated restaurants like Villa Medici and La Scala before launching La Taverna in 2013. The restaurant quickly became a local favourite, known for its quality and authentic flavour. Chef Duhalde has since expanded his culinary reach with Rapa-nui, Citizen, and La Bodega, creating refined experiences that highlight his passion for exceptional food and warm hospitality.

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