29

Cordero

Caracas

Celebrating grass-fed lamb in every dish

What makes it special? Since its 2022 opening, Cordero has been blazing a trail for its innovative approach in making one protein the protagonist of its 24 dishes: lamb. In 2023, the Caracas-based establishment picked up the American Express One To Watch Award and broke into the main Latin America's 50 Best Restaurants ranking at No.44 in 2024. This year, it rises once more to No.29.

What's in a name? Cordero means lamb in Spanish and all the sheep and lamb products – from meat to milk and cheese – are sourced from Murciano-Granadina and Assaf breeds, which are raised on partner farm Proyecto Ubre.

About the chef: Following a stint behind the burners in Europe and the Middle East, Issam Koteich returned to his native Venezuela and opened his first restaurant in the city of Mérida. He then set up shop in Dubai, where over the years, various awards were bestowed upon Latino House. On a visit to Caracas, he fell in love with Proyecto Ubre, a local sheep farm located a 30-minute drive from the Venezuelan capital, which propelled him to open Cordero.

On the menu: Grass-raised lamb is the star on each dish of the multi-course tasting menu, Koteich's delicate hand showcases it in a multitude of ways – from jerky to cheese and even lamb chops – ensuring the palate is continually surprised. One snack is ocumo (elephant ear tuber) with sheep's milk ricotta and lamb marrow and cinnamon oil, while the croqueta lamb sausage comes with roasted garlic aioli and smoked apple purée. Cuello (lamb's neck) served with silky gravy is also a must.

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