Aldenor Ernesto de Lima, founder of Manaus's oldest restaurant, dies at 88

Aldenor Ernesto de Lima, the founder of Manaus's oldest active restaurant, Canto da Peixada, has died at the age of 88. His death was announced on Monday, October 31, though the specific cause was not disclosed.

De Lima founded the establishment in 1974. The restaurant is recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Amazonas and is a landmark for regional gastronomy. He gained national prominence due to a 1980 event where his restaurant was chosen to prepare meals for Pope John Paul II during the Pontiff's visit to Manaus.

Before dedicating himself to the culinary arts, de Lima held various roles, including working as a gold miner in the Tapajós River and as a stevedore in the Port of Manaus. In 2019, he was awarded the Medal of the Legislative Order of Merit by the Legislative Assembly of Amazonas for his contributions to regional cuisine. Local authorities and the Manaus City Council have issued notes of condolence, noting his legacy in defending Amazonian culinary traditions.