A modern restaurant by Chef Pepe Moncayo showcasing his culinary journey, Spanish roots and his passion for Japanese ingredients and techniques. 

Pepe Moncayo was born in Barcelona, where he began his culinary journey by enrolling in culinary school and subsequently working at Hotel Alimara. Over the years, he gained experience at some of Barcelona’s most renowned establishments. His career took a significant turn when he transitioned to Michelin-starred Via Veneto, followed by a recommendation to join the acclaimed three Michelin-starred Can Fabes, under the mentorship of renowned Catalan Chef Santi Santamaria. His talent shone as he played a pivotal role in the opening of Evo, which swiftly garnered a coveted Michelin Star within five months of its launch. Subsequently, Pepe seized the opportunity to become the executive chef at Dos Cielos, collaborating with three Michelin Star chefs, Javier and Sergio Torres.

In 2010, Pepe embarked on a new chapter in Singapore, where he played a key role as second in command at Chef Santi's newly established restaurant, Santi, in Marina Bay Sands. Following his entrepreneurial endeavors, Pepe co-founded Ola Cocina Del Mar in Marina Bay Financial Center with his longtime colleague, Chef Daniel Chavez, before seizing the opportunity to establish his first solo venture in Singapore, called Bam! Inspired by a culinary trip to the renowned Katsuyama sake brewery in Japan, Pepe discovered the art of modern shudo and developed a passion for pairing sake with his interpretation of Spanish-Japanese cuisine.

Driven by ambition, Pepe eventually relocated to the United States with his family, founding Cranes in 2019. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Cranes adapted by offering take-out and delivery services, earning recognition and being awarded Best Fine Dining in a Box by RAMW in 2020. The dedication to excellence was reaffirmed when Cranes was awarded the prestigious Michelin Star in 2021, a recognition retained through 2022. Additionally, Cranes was honored with the title of Formal Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year by RAMW in the same year, marking a commitment to exceptional dining experiences.

"The experience of sake with food compared to wine is on another level."

Chef Pepe Moncayo talks about the fusion of Spanish Catalan and Japanese cuisine in his cooking. Watch CNN go behind the scenes with Chef Pepe to explore the intersection of food and sake.