My journey began at my grandma’s table, surrounded by a suburban all-Brazilian family: colorful, noisy, and bursting with flavors.”
I left my IT college studies to try Architecture, but it wasn’t the right fit for me. Later on, I enrolled in Culinary Arts and sought guidance from the best chefs to learn from.
As a proud native of Rio de Janeiro, my cooking embodies the passionate and sensual spirit of Brazil. With every dish, I honor my heritage working the freshness of local produce with some traditional Brazilian taste.

  • S/24 D.O.M by Alex Atala, São Paulo
    Residency

    Chef Atala's two Michelin stars culinary philosophy is deeply rooted in sustainability and environmental consciousness. He is passionate about preserving Brazil's biodiversity, working closely with local producers.

    W/23-24 Herzenslust, Obertauern
    Head Chef, Season Opening

    Chef Cândida Batista brings her Brazilian flair to the Alps, curating the essence of the region into a unique menu. Drawing inspiration from the picturesque landscapes and rich culinary traditions, she celebrates the best of both worlds.

    S/23 Herzig, Vienna
    Residency

    Chef Sören Herzig blends humor and charm into uncomplicated menus, creating original and precise dishes. Each bite surprises with carefully selected ingredients and harmonious flavors.

  • UNIVERSIDADE ESTÁCIO DE SÁ
    Culinary Arts | 2003 - 2006

    UNIVERSIDADE GAMA FILHO
    Architecture | 2002 - wasn't my cup of tea

    UNIVERSIDADE GAMA FILHO
    Software Development | 2000 - 2001

    COLÉGIO IBA-WAKIGAWA
    Data Processing Technical High School | 1997 - 2000

  • PETZ IM GUSSHAUS, CHRISTIAN PETZ, Vienna

    Chef | March 2015 - April 2016

    KONSTANTIN FILIPPOU, Vienna

    Chef de Partie | March - December 2014

    LE SIÈCLE, RADISSON BLU PALAIS, Vienna
    
Chef de Partie | December 2012 - December 2013

    RESIDENCE OF THE BRAZILIAN AMBASSADOR, Vienna
    
Private Chef | March - November 2012

    MATERNITY LEAVE

    The Hardest Job on Earth | 2010 - 2012


    MAZE, GORDON RAMSAY, Prague
    
Chef de Partie | October 2007 - February 2009

    CULINARIA PRAHA, Prague
    
Head Chef | July 2006 - August 2007

    WASABI, Rio de Janeiro

    Head Chef | April - June 2006

    OLYMPE, CLAUDE TROISGROS, Rio de Janeiro
    
Trainee | March 2006

    GERO, Rio de Janeiro
    
Trainee | January - March 2006

    
LE SAINT HONORÉ, LE MÉRIDEN, Rio de Janeiro

    Trainee | October - December 2005

    JW MARRIOTT HOTEL, Rio de Janeiro
    
Trainee | March - October 2005

  • I’ve had the privilege of showcasing my culinary skills on the reality show Hell's Kitchen Portugal, where I proudly achieved 3rd place, and The Taste Brasil. Currently, I host a culinary show on SBT Interior SP, sharing my love for cooking with viewers across Brazil. I’m also part of the global platform EmpireFlix, connecting with an international audience. On my YouTube channel, Cândida Batista, I share simple and easy-to-follow recipes designed to make cooking accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

While working at the residence of the Brazilian Ambassador to Austria, I found myself drawn to those diplomatic receptions where I could share my passion for high-end dinners with smaller groups. After attempting to return to the restaurant scene, I, as a solo mother navigating life in a foreign country, came to realize this wasn't the best fit for balancing both work and motherhood. So, I decided to shift gears and focus more on private cooking, allowing me to better manage both aspects of my life.