Bittor Arginzoniz

The culinary world often celebrates innovation, technique, and creativity. But sometimes, it's the mastery of simplicity and tradition that captivates hearts and palates alike. The skill of Bittor Arginzoniz as a master of the flame has taken him from complete anonymity into the international press. When in 1989 he decided to buy an old farmhouse in Axpe-Marzana (in the countryside of Vizcaya, in the Basque Country), just 500 yards from the house where he spent his childhood, he certainly never imagined that his idea of updating traditional char-grilling would bring him such a high level of prestige amongst the general public, the press and his colleagues.

His lack of formal training as a chef and of experience in professional kitchens did not put him off. He wanted to set up a good restaurant in which to cook the best product, above all over a direct flame. That was the start of Etxebarri where the chef's boldness and conviction combine to surprise customers. And what was behind it all? Childhood memories in a rural home in which, every morning, the fire was stocked up in preparation for the needs of the kitchen.

This Basque chef has revolutionized char-grilling. He started out grilling steaks, necks of hake and bream, but soon felt the need to experiment - anchovies, rice, baby eels, cheek of hake, truffles, shrimps, etc. This led him to devise special utensils: movable grills that can be moved over or away from the fire as needed, and frying-pans with small, laser-made holes allowing the aromas of the smoke to impregnate the food being cooked. Fire is the basic natural element in the cuisine of Etxebarri. Cooked over it are only the very best of meats, fish, shellfish, mushrooms, vegetables. And the third element in the universe of Bittor Arginzoniz, after fire and products, is the wood used to prepare the coals. He has always refused to use coal because of its aroma and has drawn up his own system: olive tree for vegetables, vinewood for meat and holm-oak for everything, but especially for fish and shellfish. His obsession for quality and his perfectionism means that he oversees every last detail of all the products that pass through his kitchen.

Endless recognitions

Bittor Arginzoniz's culinary prowess at Etxebarri has been celebrated with numerous prestigious awards and accolades, including the coveted Michelin stars, with the restaurant consistently maintaining its star status over the years. Additionally, Arginzoniz has been recognized by esteemed culinary guides such as the Michelin Guide (with one star) and the World's 50 Best Restaurants, where Etxebarri has secured its place among the top dining establishments globally in the last years. He has also secured a place in The Best Chef ranking. Arginzoniz’s innovative approach to grilling and his dedication to showcasing the finest ingredients have earned him further acclaim, with accolades from industry peers and food enthusiasts alike, solidifying Etxebarri's reputation as a culinary destination of unparalleled excellence. A man of few words: he is one of those rare figures with a culinary mastery that speaks for himself.