Asador Etxebarri – The Economic Times

Nestled in a tranquil Basque village between Bilbao and San Sebastian, Asador Etxebarri is a culinary pilgrimage site for food enthusiasts worldwide. Surrounded by lush greenery and mountains, this destination restaurant offers a dining experience like no other, thanks to chef Victor Arguinzoniz‘s mastery of fire.In his small kitchen, equipped with custom-built grills, Arguinzoniz transforms simple ingredients into unforgettable dishes that celebrate their natural flavours.Rejecting molecular gastronomy, the chef lets his ingredients shine. A single red Palamos prawn, grilled to perfection, or fresh mozzarella from his own buffalo paired with a slice of juicy tomato, are testaments to his philosophy. Every item on the menu, from anchovy toast to milk ice cream with beetroot, bears the unmistakable touch of the grill.

While you can opt for a la carte options, the 14-course tasting menu is the ultimate way to savour Etxebarri’s offerings. Guests dine in a spacious room overlooking the village square, indulging in delicacies like homemade chorizo, baby eels and sea cucumber with green beans. The piece de resistance is the beef chop – a massive cut with a succulent texture and flavour so extraordinary, it leaves no trace on the plate. Etxebarri isn’t just a meal, it’s an ode to simplicity, fire and the unadulterated joy of extraordinary ingredients.