Nando Cuca* - your local Artisan Baker

Since leaving his home town of Rio de Janeiro, Nando has had several brushes with the world of cooking and catering. He spent quite a few years writing about Brazilian food on his blog and later decided to put his recipes into his own YouTube channel. This led to a couple of books and a stint running the café at Tooting Bec Lido. 

When not exercising his culinary passions, Nando works a busy jobbing graphic designer and Creative Director in the advertising world. 

*AKA - Nando Farah

The journey from baking the occasional loaf of bread for family or friends to consistently baking large quantities at specific times is truly fascinating. Becoming a serious baker entails delving into the science behind it and mastering the art of controlling numerous variables to achieve consistent results. It's an intriguing blend of artistic sensibilities and geekery. While tactile feedback from the dough is valuable, I have thermometers scattered everywhere to ensure precision.

Admittedly, there are moments of frustration, especially when silly mistakes occur. However, witnessing a loaf expand in the oven, breathing in the delightful aromas that permeate the house, and observing the joy on people's faces as they receive a still-warm, crispy, and crusty loaf of bread in their hands brings immense happiness and fulfillment.

I am incredibly grateful to my supportive neighbors who have been with me since the beginning, faithfully purchasing my products every week and helping spread the love for authentic bread.