Quique Dacosta

Quique Dacosta is a self-taught Spanish chef renowned worldwide for his innovative vision and profound connection to Mediterranean cuisine. As the owner of the acclaimed Quique Dacosta Restaurante, which holds three Michelin stars, he has established himself as a leader in haute cuisine. His unique style, inspired by the landscapes of the Mediterranean and Montgó Natural Park, is defined by creativity, impeccable technique, and a commitment to local ingredients. In addition to his accomplishments at his flagship restaurant in Dénia, he is also the Culinary Director of the Mandarin Oriental Ritz Hotel in Madrid, where his restaurant Deessa earned a Michelin star within months of opening. With multiple gastronomic projects in Spain and London, Dacosta continues to redefine international haute cuisine while staying true to his roots and a spirit of innovation.

Dacosta began his culinary journey at age sixteen at El Poblet, a restaurant that, under his leadership, would become a world-renowned fine dining establishment and eventually be renamed Quique Dacosta Restaurante. In 1999, he took ownership of the restaurant, and in 2009, he renamed it after himself, launching it onto the global stage. Dacosta has earned numerous awards, including the National Gastronomy Award in 2005 and the Gold Medal for Merit in Fine Arts, and was named Best Spanish Restaurateur by the Royal Gastronomic Academy. His focus on Mediterranean cuisine and commitment to excellence have allowed him to explore gastronomy through various projects, including ArrosQD in London, Llisa Negra, Vuelve Carolina, and Mercatbar in Valencia. His editorial work, "Quique Dacosta 2000-2006", was a groundbreaking project, earning accolades as Best Publication of the Year and the first trophy in the Gourmand World Cookbook’s Cookbook Hall of Fame.