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 led to the creation of a restaurant that captures the soul of the Mediterranean. Due Mare was created to bring that feeling to life — long lunches, shared plates, laughter around the table, and food prepared with care.
Viktor Imer
Viktor Imer was born in Corfu, Greece, an island whose culinary identity has been shaped by centuries of cultural exchange. Corfu’s gastronomy blends traditional Greek flavours with Venetian influences, creating a cuisine that celebrates both richness and simplicity.
Growing up on the island, Viktor was immersed in Mediterranean cooking traditions from an early age. In his family home, food was always at the centre of life. His Nonna, together with his father Christos and his mother Vivviene, played an important role in shaping his understanding of cooking, patience, and the joy that comes from sharing meals.
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 — it is about time, care, and the connection food creates between people.
From Chef to Entrepreneur
Before becoming known as an entrepreneur, Viktor spent years training as a chef, working in kitchens across London and Greece. During this time he developed a strong understanding of Mediterranean cooking while also gaining experience in restaurant management and ownership.
Alongside his restaurant ventures, Viktor founded a private dining concept called Let Me Cook 4U, later evolving into Your Longevity Chef. Through this concept he hosted hundreds of private dining experiences, bringing Mediterranean cuisine directly into homes and special occasions. These events became more than dinners — they were intimate experiences of culture, storytelling, and hospitality.
In parallel, Viktor established himself in the business world through Bespoke Medical Clinic, created in partnership with Dr Magdalena Bejma.
A Shared Love for Mediterranean Flavours
Through countless dinners, travels, and time spent in Viktor’s family home in Corfu, Dr Magdalena Bejma developed a deep appreciation for the authenticity of Mediterranean cuisine. Surrounded by olive groves, coastal air, and long tables filled with traditional dishes, she experienced firsthand the atmosphere that defines Mediterranean dining — where food is not simply eaten, but shared,
celebrated, and remembered.
These moments inspired a shared idea: to bring that same feeling of Mediterranean hospitality to the UK. From this vision, Due Mare was born.
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.
OUR PHILOSOPHY
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 reinterpretation.
Every dish is built around three simple principles:
• 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.
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.
Due Mare is a place where:
• food is honest
• flavours are bold
• hospitality is genuine
• time slows down just enough to savour every bite
THE EXPERIENCE
Dining Like in Nonna’s Garden
The concept of Due Mare goes beyond the food itself. Across Mediterranean cultures, meals are moments of connection — an opportunity to gather around the table with family and friends. The restaurant is designed to evoke the feeling of a relaxed lunch in Nonna’s garden: long tables, flowing conversation, shared plates, and warm 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.
