Michelin-Starred Chef Elevates Protein Powder with Luxurious Shake

In the ever-evolving world of protein powders and shakes, a new trend has emerged that blends luxury and health. As of 2025-11-11T12:49:45+00:00, the global protein powder market has reached a staggering $24.8 billion, and brands are now vying to create the most visually striking and gourmet-inspired offerings.

One such example is the Michelin-starred chef Miller Prada's creation for Hermosa, a luxury protein powder brand. The resulting shake, which was developed for Hermosa's fitness studio chain Barry's, is a true work of art. Resembling Vincent van Gogh's iconic "Starry Night" painting, the shake features swirling hues of white, blue, and yellow, with a saffron foam topping and a sprinkle of blue spirulina.

According to Erika Tamayo, the founder of Hermosa, the shake has only one comparison: "Everyone says that it looks like Vincent van Gogh's Starry Night." The shake's unique flavors come from a blend of vanilla protein powder, the flesh of a guanabana (a tropical fruit with a mango-banana taste), and almond milk.

This luxurious protein shake is just one example of the growing trend in the UK, where "nutrition-focused beverage outlets" like Elevate and Soho House are offering high-end, protein-based smoothies and shakes priced at around £9 each. These visually striking, nutrient-packed health drinks have been inspired by the viral success of LA-based luxury wellness grocery stores like Erewhon, where some smoothies can cost more than $20.

As the protein powder market continues to boom, brands are seeking new ways to stand out and appeal to health-conscious consumers who are willing to pay a premium for a gourmet experience. With the rise of social media and the influence of fitness influencers, the demand for protein-based products has skyrocketed, leading to a shortage of whey, a key ingredient in many protein powders.

The protein powder industry has come a long way since its humble beginnings in the 19th century, when the first "protein-based product" was a "melted-down beef hides and carcasses" concoction. Today, the market is flooded with countless shakes, powders, and even protein-infused foods, catering to a wide range of health and fitness goals.