How would you describe your culinary philosophy?
My mother’s traditional cuisine with a touch of creativity and innovation. I´m highly influenced by the cooking I have seen in my house ever since I was a small kid. My mother is a great home cook, she is the person that has made me the most happy through cooking and that´s our main philosophy now in all of our restaurants, to make people happy through food.
Who is your hero? And Why?
Ferrán Adriá is my absolute hero, because of what he has given to the gastronomic industry, both nationally and internationally. In recent times there is no other chef that has been as influential as him. After knowing him for over 20 years, I´m now a good friend of his and yet, I still get nervous when around him. He is a true star and a great person.
Your sources of inspiration?
In terms of chefs, Joel Robuchon, Nobu Matuhisa and Ferrán Adriá have been my most direct sources of inspiration in the past years. Not only from a culinary perspective, but also from a business side. These three chefs are true industry leaders and have lead a path we now intend to follow. I also find a lot of inspiration through traveling around the world. My mind is at ease when traveling, more relaxed and open to receiving inputs. Last but not least, my inspiration comes when siting down in front of a blank piece of paper and starting to draw. I need to spend hours in my office drawing dishes I have in my mind and through this process I get inspired in a natural way.
What luxury would you want on a desert island?
Extra virgin olive oil. It is a main ingredient in our kitchen and a luxury in a lot of countries. I can cook just about anything with that ingredient and being in a desert island surrounded by fish and seafood would be ideal. Pair that with a bottle of Krug and you would be in heaven.
Your ideal moment to drink Krug?
I like to drink a glass of Krug with my friends and family over a nice Sunday meal during my days off. All the flavors and aromas of Krug are increased when shared with the right people, the right moment and the right music.