Viktor Imer and the Story Behind Due Mare
In a world where dining experiences are often shaped by trends and fleeting culinary fashions, Due Mare stands as a tribute to something far more timeless: honesty in food, simplicity in ingredients, and the warmth of Mediterranean hospitality. At the heart of this concept is Viktor Imer, an entrepreneur whose journey through food, culture, and business has culminated in the creation of a restaurant that captures the soul of the Mediterranean.
A Journey Rooted in the Mediterranean
Viktor Imer was born in Corfu, Greece, an island whose culinary identity has been shaped by centuries of cultural exchange. Corfu’s gastronomy carries strong Venetian influences alongside traditional Greek flavours, creating a cuisine that celebrates both richness and simplicity.
Growing up on the island, Viktor was immersed in the traditions of Mediterranean cooking from an early age. In Viktor’s household, food was always at the centre of family life. His Nona along with his father Christos and his mother Vivienne played an important role in shaping his understanding of cooking, patience, and the joy that comes from sharing food with others.
Meals were never rushed and were always prepared with care, respect for ingredients, and attention to tradition. These early experiences taught Viktor that cooking is not only about technique, but also about time, patience, and the enjoyment that food brings to people gathered around the table.
These influences instilled in Viktor a deep appreciation for authentic flavours and honest cooking. Viktor often describes Greek cuisine as being built around honest flavours presented simply on the plate — an idea that would later become one of the guiding principles behind Due Mare.
From Chef to Entrepreneur
Before becoming known as an entrepreneur, Viktor spent years training as a chef . His culinary journey took him through kitchens in both London and Greece, where he developed a strong understanding of Mediterranean cooking while gaining valuable experience in restaurant management and ownership.
Over the years he owned and managed restaurants while continuing to refine his approach to hospitality and flavour.
He also founded LET ME COOK 4U that was later named YOUR LONGEVITY CHEF a private dining concept that quickly gained popularity. Through this venture he hosted hundreds of successful private dining experiences, bringing Mediterranean flavours directly into people’s homes and special occasions. Each event became more than a dinner — it was an intimate experience of culture, storytelling, and genuine hospitality.
Alongside his culinary ventures, Viktor established himself in the business world as the owner of BESPOKE MEDICAL CLINIC created in partnership with Dr Magdalena Bejma. Their professional collaboration is built on the same values of quality, attention to detail, and personalised experience.
A Shared Love for Mediterranean Flavours
Dr Magdalena Bejma’s relationship with Viktor’s cuisine quickly became more than simple appreciation. Through countless dinners, private gatherings, and travels together, she developed a deep admiration for the authenticity and passion behind his cooking.
Whether enjoying meals prepared in Viktor’s family home in Corfu, or discovering regional dishes during visits to Italy, those experiences became a source of inspiration for both of them.
Surrounded by olive groves, coastal air, and long tables filled with traditional dishes, Dr Bejma experienced firsthand the atmosphere that defines Mediterranean dining — where food is not simply consumed but shared, celebrated, and remembered.
It was during these moments that the idea of creating something together in hospitality began to take shape. The dream was to bring that same feeling — the warmth of a Mediterranean home, the simplicity of real flavours, and the joy of shared meals — to guests in the UK.
The Birth of Due Mare
From these experiences, Due Mare was born.
The concept reflects Viktor’s culinary heritage and the shared vision he developed with Dr Magdalena Bejma: to create a dining space that transports guests to the Mediterranean through flavour, atmosphere, and hospitality.
Mediterranean Soul on the Plate
The cuisine at Due Mare reflects Viktor’s upbringing and culinary philosophy. Inspired by the flavours of Corfu and southern Italy, the menu focuses on dishes that are prepared traditionally, without unnecessary twists or modern reinterpretations.
Every dish is built around:
• simple, high-quality ingredients
• traditional cooking techniques
• patience and respect for flavour
Rather than reinventing Mediterranean classics, Due Mare celebrates them as they have always been enjoyed — honest, vibrant, and deeply satisfying.
A Dining Experience Like Nonna’s Garden
The concept of Due Mare goes beyond the food itself. The vision is to recreate a feeling familiar across Mediterranean cultures: the joy of gathering around a table with family and friends.
The restaurant is designed to evoke the atmosphere of a relaxed lunch in Nonna’s garden — long tables, flowing conversation, shared plates, and the warmth of hospitality.
During the day, guests can enjoy leisurely lunches filled with fresh flavours and sunlight. As evening arrives, the restaurant transforms into a lively dinner setting where food, drinks, and laughter create a vibrant Mediterranean energy.
Mediterranean Passion in Leeds
Through Due Mare, Viktor Imer brings together every part of his journey — his childhood in Corfu, his years in professional kitchens, his experience as a restaurateur, and his passion for creating meaningful dining experiences.
Together with Dr Magdalena Bejma, the vision is to offer something more than just a restaurant.
They want every guest who walks through the door to experience a moment of Mediterranean passion — a place where food is honest, flavours are bold, and time slows down just enough to savour every bite.
