Jose Gourmet built its reputation on the idea that humble Portuguese conservas deserve the same care, sourcing and artistry as fine wine.
Backstory
The brand was founded in 2008 by designer Luis Mendonca and his friend Adriano Ribeiro, a TAP Portugal pilot who is the majority partner. Mendonca serves as art director, and the pair set out to elevate traditional Portuguese tinned fish through thoughtful sourcing and striking design.
The Region
Based in Portugal, Jose Gourmet works directly with local fishermen and small-scale producers along the Portuguese coast and neighboring regions, under a stated fair-trade philosophy that connects artisanal fishers committed to sustainable practices with discerning customers.
The Range
The catalogue centers on canned seafood, including sardines, mackerel, tuna, octopus, squid, trout, cod and clams, alongside seafood pates, olive oils, wine vinegars, sweets, and a small selection of wine and spirits such as Port and brandy. A signature of the brand is its packaging: the founders invited Portuguese illustrators to create the artwork for each product, a collaboration that has grown to include dozens of artists and turned each tin into a small collectible.
