Diogo Jota
The legacy of Diogo Jota, the former Liverpool FC player, continues to leave an indelible mark on the city of Liverpool. Known for his prowess on the pitch and his warm personality off it, Jota is fondly remembered across Merseyside. Flags and scarves are frequently laid outside Anfield, and murals depicting his infectious smile and memorable celebrations adorn the city’s buildings. Inside the stadium, Liverpool fans rise to sing his chant at the 20-minute mark of every home game, a tribute to his shirt number.
One particularly touching homage can be found at Frevo Brunch Cafe on Hanover Street in Liverpool city centre. Ana, a chef who worked closely with Jota and his family, has dedicated a part of her cafe to his memory. A heartwarming photograph of Ana with Jota and his wife, Rute Cardoso, is accompanied by a moving message: “The longing I feel will be eternalised. Diogo Jota. RIP.”
Ana said: “This is everything for me, and I love it, it’s important. This is good food. I made everything, all the different foods because he [Jota] loved Italian and Spanish cuisine.”
Ana’s connection to Jota and his family was profound. She considered them akin to her own family and worked as their personal chef until the tragic car accident in Spain that claimed the lives of Jota and his brother, Andre Silva. Ana’s culinary journey began in her native Portugal, inspired by her grandmother’s cooking. After moving to the UK, she continued her passion, eventually opening Frevo Brunch Cafe with her daughter, Luka Noto.
Luka said: “You can just ask my mum what you want and she will just do it, the hard way.”
Ana’s dedication to her craft is evident in the way she honors Jota’s memory. A new menu item at Frevo Cafe, inspired by Jota’s favorite dish, features cured salmon, cream cheese, and flavored olive oil on sourdough. This dish serves as a tribute to Jota’s love for good food and the warm atmosphere he cherished.
Ana said: “I want people to know more about the passion that goes into the food and I want to keep this business going forever.”
Despite the tragedy, Ana’s bond with Rute remains strong. Although Rute has moved back to Portugal, Ana continues to visit her, maintaining the friendship that began in Liverpool. The connection Ana shared with Jota and his family has deepened her love for Merseyside, and she cherishes the memories they created together. The cafe, a testament to Ana’s dedication, offers a warm, welcoming space where Jota’s legacy lives on.
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