Author: acardona

The Madrid Academy of Gastronomy honors Luis Baselga, sommelier and maître at Smoked Room, as Best Sommelier 2024 for his outstanding professional career at the VIII edition of the Community of Madrid Gastronomy Awards.

The Madrid Academy of Gastronomy awarded the Best Sommelier 2024 prize to Luis Baselga, sommelier and maître at Smoked Room, in recognition of his dedication, professionalism, and talent in the world of gastronomy and wine. At the VIII edition of the Community of Madrid Gastronomy Awards, held at the Royal House of the Post Office, the accolade celebrates Baselga’s exceptional career and his remarkable contribution to gastronomy and the world of wine.

About Luis Baselga

Luis Baselga, a graduate in Gastronomy and Culinary Arts from the Basque Culinary Center, began his career in the kitchen, later discovering his passion for wine. His professional journey in iconic Madrid restaurants such as Efímero and TriCiclo led him to specialize in wine selection and care, eventually joining the Dani García Group in 2021. At Smoked Room, one of the most exclusive spaces by chef Dani García, Baselga heads the wine list and manages the dining room service, ensuring every detail of the gastronomic experience. Baselga states, “For me, this recognition is a sign that hard work and dedication guide you in the right direction. I deeply appreciate the acknowledgment of my work in wine, service, and interaction with people.”

The sommelier emphasizes the importance of the support he has received: “I want to thank everyone who has always given me the opportunity and resources to develop my work and explore new paths. I am grateful to the Dani García Group for allowing me to build a project from scratch and bring it to excellence alongside a team without whom none of this would be possible, especially Massimiliano. Being able to work with the greatest example of discipline, consistency, and virtuosity—a mentor and friend—is a fortune I enjoy every day I go to work.”

Smoked Room

Since its opening in June 2021, Smoked Room has distinguished itself with a unique gastronomic concept centered around smoke, achieving two Michelin stars in its Madrid location and another in Dubai, reflecting the innovative spirit and culinary excellence of the Dani García Group. In this context, Baselga’s role as sommelier and maître d’ has been key to enriching the dining experience, offering a wine selection that complements each dish and elevates the guest’s experience in every way.

This recognition from the Madrid Academy of Gastronomy marks a milestone in Luis Baselga’s career, who, together with the entire Dani García Group team, is committed to continuing to elevate the level of sommelier excellence in their projects.

When masters from different bars come together to create something exceptional, the art of mixology is born. This October, El Coleccionista, located in the heart of Madrid, has been the stage for collaborations with Marlowe on Sunday, the 20th, and Sago House on Monday, the 21st. Coming up next, on the 30th, we’ll have the pleasure of welcoming the renowned Seville bar Montana, which will be making a one-night appearance to share its magic in an exciting guest shift.

About Montana

But what makes Montana so special? Located on the historic San Pablo street, across from the majestic Church of La Magdalena. This iconic spot has witnessed countless important moments in the life of Seville. Montana, in addition to being a city landmark, offers an experience that blends the rich history of its surroundings with innovation in mixology. This bar, whose building dates back to 1926 and has seen various incarnations from a tire shop to a famous toy store. It reflects constant change and adaptability—traits that also define its cocktail creations.

On this occasion, Montana’s unique atmosphere will be transported to El Coleccionista, where both teams will work side by side to deliver an unforgettable experience. Imagine enjoying the perfect blend of Sevillian tradition and Madrid sophistication, all in one glass. This is a rare opportunity for attendees to savor cocktails that fuse the best of both worlds, with exclusive creations that won’t be available anywhere else.

The meeting of two icons like El Coleccionista and Montana promises an evening full of artistry, creativity, and, above all, flavor. It won’t just be a showcase of skill but also a journey through history, from the streets of Seville to the vibrant heart of Madrid.

Leña, the culinary concept that revolves around the grill, technique, and top-quality ingredients, with meat as the star of the show and nods to Catalan gastronomic culture, arrives in Barcelona.

The renowned chef from Málaga, Dani García, will make his debut at the 5-star Grand Hyatt Barcelona hotel with the flames of Leña. The restaurant’s concept centers on the grill—meat and its various cooking methods take center stage—alongside the finest products, refined techniques, and references to Catalan culinary traditions.

Leña embodies the high culinary spirit of chef Dani García (recently awarded as the first Spanish chef to receive a Michelin star in Dubai with his restaurant Smoked Room). It aims to become a new haven for meat and grill enthusiasts, offering them the full experience of fire as the origin of everything, while integrating identity-defining elements and values (wood, charcoal, flames, smoke, and smoked foods) as the backbone of the concept.

The interior design maintains Leña’s essence, featuring a carefully curated, elegant, and avant-garde décor with stone and wood as the primary materials, evoking a sense of the primitive and primal. In 2021, Leña in Marbella was awarded the “Most Beautiful Restaurant in the World” by the Restaurant & Bar Design Awards. The opening of Leña in Barcelona marks the fourth iteration of this concept by Grupo Dani García, following launches in Marbella (2020), Madrid (2021), and Dubai (2023). In 2025, the brand will also arrive in Miami.

Excited about this new project, Dani García states: “We want Leña to ignite in Barcelona. I love being in this special city, which fascinates and excites me so much.”

The Essence of Leña

Various cuts of meat, Dani García’s iconic burger, internationally inspired dishes, grilled vegetables, and classic recipes executed with high precision. Leña offers diners an unparalleled sensory experience in a sophisticated and elegant space located in the 5-star Grand Hyatt Barcelona hotel, just a few meters from Camp Nou.

Leña upholds the high culinary spirit of chef Dani García (recently awarded as the first Spanish chef to earn a Michelin star in Dubai with his restaurant Smoked Room). It aims to become the new destination for meat and grill enthusiasts, ready to embrace all the rituals where fire is at the core of everything, while integrating key elements and values (wood, charcoal, flames, smoke, and smoked foods) as the foundation of its concept.

The interior design preserves Leña’s essence with a meticulously crafted, elegant, and avant-garde décor, using stone and wood as the primary materials to evoke a sense of the primitive and primal. In 2021, Leña in Marbella was awarded the “Most Beautiful Restaurant in the World” by the Restaurant & Bar Design Awards. The arrival of Leña in Barcelona marks the fourth opening of the concept for Grupo Dani García, following Marbella (2020), Madrid (2021), and Dubai (2023). The brand will also expand to Miami in 2025.

From October 18 to 27, Madrid becomes the cocktail capital thanks to the Madrid Cocktail Week 2024. During these days, the city dives into a whirlwind of liquid art, where top bartenders gather to surprise with their creations. Iconic bars, restaurants, and hotels join in this celebration, offering unique experiences that blend flavors, innovative techniques, and a dose of art in every glass.

El Coleccionista: A Must-Visit Spot

At the heart of this festival is El Coleccionista, a gem of Madrid’s cocktail scene. This bar not only offers a high-end cocktail experience but also turns each drink into a work of art. Located in an elegant and sophisticated corner, El Coleccionista is known for its ability to capture stories in every cocktail, combining unexpected ingredients with techniques that seem straight out of an alchemist’s lab.

During Madrid Cocktail Week, El Coleccionista presents an exclusive menu, inspired by autumn flavors and the rich history of Madrid.

What to Expect from Madrid Cocktail Week 2024?

This year, more than 100 venues are participating in the event. Attendees will have the chance to discover new flavors, learn about the latest mixology trends, and enjoy unique creations.

Don’t miss the chance to explore this universe of sensations. Madrid Cocktail Week 2024 is the perfect time to discover the best of Madrid’s cocktail scene, and if you’re looking for an experience that blends sophistication, creativity, and flavor, El Coleccionista is your ideal destination.

There are flavors that accompany us throughout life, those that transport us to the warmth of home, to the family table where time seems to stand still. New menu in Tragabuches, make us understand that true cooking is a journey back to those moments, which is why we wanted to pay homage to our roots with the new section of our menu: “Grandmothers in the Kitchen – Tradition at the Table.”

This section is much more than a nod to the past; it’s a tribute to the love our grandmothers put into every dish. Those slow-cooked meals that fill the house with their aromas and warm the soul are the true stars.

When we say “Grandmothers in the kitchen,” we’re talking about the very essence of traditional Andalusian cuisine, about recipes passed down from generation to generation, and that you can now enjoy at our restaurant, with the same love and care they used. But at Tragabuches, we don’t just bring back tradition, we adapt it to modern times.

Tradition at the Table

We want you to feel at home, for each dish to embrace you and remind you of the joy of enjoying a good family meal. From the first bite to the last, “Grandmothers in the Kitchen” invites you to rediscover those flavors that, though simple, have the power to touch the soul.

So, when you come to Tragabuches and sit down at the table, you’ll be sharing more than just a meal. You’ll be connecting with tradition, with our roots, and, above all, with the love that has gone into preparing every dish. Because in the end, good cooking is a way of caring, of bringing people together, and of reminding us that the best things in life are the simplest.

Come to Tragabuches and let our grandmothers tell you their story through each of their dishes. We’re waiting for you with the same comforting stews, but with the unique touch of our house!

Octopus, that fascinating marine creature as versatile as it is in gastronomy, has its own day of tribute: International Octopus Day. Every October 8th, seafood lovers around the world celebrate this day with dishes that highlight the delicacy of this cephalopod, with one dish in particular that holds a special place in Spanish cuisine: Pulpo a la Gallega, and at Lobito de Mar Marbella, we couldn’t forget about it.

A Dish with History and Tradition

Pulpo a la Gallega, or “Pulpo á Feira” as it is also known, is a dish that embodies the essence of Galician gastronomy. Its simplicity in ingredients and preparation only serves to highlight the quality of the main product: the octopus. Cooked to perfection, sliced into rounds, and seasoned with extra virgin olive oil, paprika (sweet or spicy, to taste), and coarse salt. All of this is served on a bed of boiled potatoes that is a must.

But this dish is not just a recipe; it’s a tradition, an experience that takes us back to Galician festivals, where it is enjoyed informally, but with a reverent respect for the main ingredient.

History of Pulpo a la Gallega

Pulpo a la Gallega has its roots in the ancient Galician pilgrimages, where this delicacy was prepared in large copper cauldrons during fairs. Originally, octopus was not a local product; it arrived from the coasts of North Africa, transported along the Camino de Santiago. Galician fishermen began incorporating it into their diet due to its easy preservation in brine. Over time, octopus became an essential food in Galician popular celebrations.

The use of paprika, imported after the discovery of the Americas, is what gave it the characteristic touch we know today, combining the flavors of the sea with the smoky aroma of this spice. In this way, Pulpo a la Gallega has transcended borders, becoming an iconic dish not only in Galicia but throughout Spain.

So whether you enjoy it at home or in a restaurant like Lobito de Mar, this October 8th, don’t forget to pay tribute to the octopus with a good Pulpo a la Gallega! The perfect excuse to savor a tradition with modern touches.

This October 5th and 6th, Madrid will be the epicenter of gastronomy with one of the most exciting events of the year: Chefs on Fire, where Leña and Smoked Room will have their own space. At the Real Jardín Botánico Alfonso XIII, more than 20 chefs will come together to create a unique culinary experience, where fire will be the true star. Under the flames, these masters will transform ingredients into gastronomic masterpieces, all in an environment that blends art, live music, and nature.

Where will it take place?

The chosen venue, the Real Jardín Botánico Alfonso XIII, is a gem of the Spanish capital. With its vegetation and tranquil atmosphere, it provides the perfect setting for this festival that combines the sophistication of fine dining with the great outdoors. Over the course of these two days, visitors will enjoy not only the aromas rising from the grills but also in the opportunity to watch chefs in action, preparing dishes right before their eyes.

Leña and Smoked Room

Among the participants of Chefs on Fire are Leña and Smoked Room. Leña has solidified itself as a temple for grill lovers, its concept revolving around intense flavors and the tradition of cooking over embers.

On the other hand, Smoked Room, with its Michelin star, is an ode to elegance and precision cooking, where smoke plays a crucial role. This space, renowned for its exclusivity and very limited capacity, has earned international acclaim for its meticulous attention to detail and its ability to transform ingredients through smoking.

Award-winning chefs, live music, and more

In addition to Leña and Smoked Room, the festival will feature over 20 renowned chefs, all celebrated for their talent and creativity in the culinary world. From standout Spanish chefs to international figures, each will bring their unique vision of fire-based cuisine. The result? A feast of flavors where respect for raw ingredients and technique is fundamental.

Chefs on Fire is not just a food festival; it’s a celebration for all the senses. While the chefs transform ingredients into exquisite delights, live bands will provide the perfect soundtrack to the experience.

Chefs on Fire is more than a festival; it’s a celebration of gastronomy, art, and music in a one-of-a-kind setting. It’s a place where fire comes alive in the hands of exceptional chefs and where flavor is elevated through passion and technique. If you’re a lover of fine food and looking for a unique experience, you can’t miss this event. Come and enjoy two days of culinary creativity, in an atmosphere where embers, music, and nature come together to offer something truly unforgettable.

On October 1st, International Sake Day is celebrated, and the world raises a glass to one of Japan’s most iconic beverages: sake. At Smoked Room, we understand that a gastronomic experience goes beyond the plate; it is the perfect union of ingredients, techniques, and, of course, exceptional pairings. Sake is one of those ideal companions, a drink that, much like our cuisine, reflects precision, balance, and respect for tradition.

Originating in Japan, sake is much more than just an alcoholic beverage; it is a true ambassador of Japanese culture. Its history dates back over two thousand years, when the first rudimentary fermentation methods gave rise to what is now one of the pillars of Japanese gastronomy. Over time, sake has evolved, refining and adapting itself until it became a cult drink appreciated worldwide.

What makes sake so special?

Sake stands out for being a deeply versatile and complex beverage, making it a unique sensory experience. Each sip reveals the dedication of generations of master craftsmen who have perfected its production. This liquor is made through a process of fermenting rice, using simple ingredients such as water, koji (a fermenting mold), and yeast, but the final result varies greatly depending on the variety, production method, and fermentation conditions.

Depending on how it is made, sake can present a wide range of aromas and flavors, from sweet and fruity to dry and earthy. The diversity is so vast that each bottle of sake can offer a completely different profile: from a robust, intensely flavored Junmai to an elegant, floral Daiginjo, perfect for the most refined palates.

It is this versatility that allows sake to adapt to a wide variety of situations and dishes. Whether enjoyed on its own, paired with a light meal, or combined with bolder flavors, sake has the ability to enhance each bite, bringing out the nuances of the ingredients without overshadowing them.

A toast to sake, a toast to culture

If you’ve ever tried sake, you know that each sip is a revelation. Its ability to pair with a wide variety of dishes makes it an ideal companion for any type of cuisine, not just Japanese. Its capacity to complement subtle flavors or balance bolder dishes makes it a perfect choice for seafood, fish, meats, and vegetables alike.

Can you imagine enjoying a perfect rice dish, Dani García style, from the comfort of your home? At Tragabuches, we bring you a recipe that elevates the art of rice to a new level, combining the intensity of morcilla with the freshness of razor clams. This dish is perfect if you want to surprise your family or treat yourself to something special.

This rice plays with contrasts: the soft morcilla brings a comforting warmth, while the razor clams, with their marine touch, add a burst of freshness. What we can tell you is that each ingredient is carefully selected to let you savor both tradition and originality. Just make sure you have a good glass of white wine on hand to go with it!

Black Pudding and Razor Clam Rice (serves 2)

Print Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Calories 547

Ingredients

• 175 g bomba rice
• 175 ml chicken broth
• 65 g Ronda black pudding chopped
• 40 g cooked razor clams
• 20 ml chicken juice optional
• 10 g butter
• Juice of half a lemon
• Zest of half a lemon
• Fresh parsley to taste
• Salt to taste

Instructions

• Cook the rice: Bring the chicken broth to a boil. Place the rice in a saucepan and add the hot broth. Cook over medium heat until the broth is fully absorbed (about 15-18 minutes). Let it rest.
• Prepare the razor clams: If fresh, boil enough water and cook the clams for 45 seconds. Then transfer them to a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking process.
• Cook the black pudding: Fry the black pudding in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped razor clams and lightly sauté.
• Mix everything: Add the rice to the pan with the black pudding and razor clams. Add the broth in batches, stirring until the rice absorbs it. Adjust the salt.
• Finish: Add the lemon juice, butter, and parsley. Stir well.
• Plating: Serve the rice in deep dishes and place the whole razor clams on top. Grate some lemon zest for garnish.

Video

At Tragabuches, we love to play with these nuances, because we know that it’s in those small gestures where the difference between an ordinary dish and an unforgettable one lies.

So, the next time you’re in the mood to cook something special, this razor clam and morcilla rice is your solution. And if you decide to give it a try, don’t hesitate to share your version with us. Bon appétit!

Two years ago, Tragabuches Marbella opened its doors, and since then, every visit has been a celebration of Andalusian flavors and essence. Today, on its second anniversary, we want to reflect on what these two years have meant, as it has become more than just a restaurant—it’s an experience that connects diners with the land, tradition, and innovation.

The Essence of Andalusia

Since opening in September 2022, Tragabuches Marbella has successfully blended the authenticity of Andalusian cuisine with modern touches that surprise even the most demanding palates. But it’s not just about fusing recipes or ingredients; it’s the story behind every dish that tells something deeper.

We’ve managed to create a space where traditional flavors find room for creativity and merge with trends, always respecting tradition but adding that innovative spark. Here, meals are not just food; they are narratives of our land. And after two years, Tragabuches has proven that Andalusian cuisine has much more to offer than just the classics, though those will always hold a special place.

On this 24th of September, 2024, Tragabuches Marbella turns two. Two years of sharing unforgettable moments, of traditions, and above all, of making each diner feel part of this story.

What drives us on this anniversary is to maintain the quality that defines us and to provide the warm and welcoming atmosphere that has always characterized us. We want you to come and enjoy the familiar flavors, and also to be surprised by some of our team’s recommendations.

Two years may seem like a short time, but for us, it’s been a journey filled with learning, encounters, and many smiles around the table. We’ve worked day by day to ensure that each visit to Tragabuches is special, and today we celebrate these first steps with the certainty that the best is yet to come.

We want to thank each of you for being part of this adventure. Without you, we wouldn’t be celebrating this second anniversary, and it’s your support that drives us to keep innovating while always staying true to the essence that defines us.

A Toast to What’s to Come

If you’ve been part of the Tragabuches Marbella family from the start, you know that every visit is a reminder of what brings us together: a passion for good food, shared experiences, and love for Andalusian culture. And if you haven’t yet had the chance to meet us, we invite you to become part of our story on this second anniversary.

We can’t wait to see what the coming years have in store, but we know one thing for sure: we’ll continue to stay true to our roots and to all of you, who make it possible for Tragabuches to keep growing.