Demi Perera recounts one more moreish moment in Madrid as her series about the Spanish capital continues.
The grand finale of my exquisite culinary tour of Madrid with Luxury Travel Advisors was an unforgettable 20 course meal crafted by chef Ramón Freixa. His restaurant is set within, Hotel Único, a former 19th century mansion in the Salamanca District. As well as two Michelin stars it also boasts three Repsol Suns, and other Spanish and international distinctions.
The Food
Commencing the evening with Bellini and a pickled pearl the menu served no less than nine starters and appetisers in total. The stand out star was red king prawn cooked two ways which looked as dramatic on the table as it sounds.
Monkfish with seaweed sauce and creamy white wine was divine and a visual masterpiece on the plate. Through out the evening dishes sizzled, shone and seared. Some dishes were assembled on the table and others appeared as if by magic to the sound of collective gasps from around the table.
Wines
Each course was paired with magnificent wines from the restaurant’s own cellar. 10 year old Reisling and single vineyard Rioja flowed generously. However, it was unanimously agreed that the 30 year old Amontillado sherry would remain an undisputed star in Spain’s grandiose wine repertoire.
The most notable element to me as the evening closed, other than the food itself, was that even at this level of dining the element of tapas exists in Madrid. Thus the city delivers an extraordinary food and travel experience which is unmissable. I may have found the holy grail for food travellers.
Standing Ovation
The evening belonged to Ramon Freixa and he knew it. The chef walked in to greet diners to the sound of applause and a standing ovation. A magnificent feast served with perfect grace and unmistakable Spanish affability made for a triumphant evening. It’s hard to imagine a better culinary experience.
My Michelin star dining experience was part of Luxury Travel Advisor’s Chef’s Table Tour of Madrid. Prices start from £2,800 per person and includes:
- Three nights accommodation at luxury 5* hotel (B&B basis);
- Private chauffeur;
- Local market visit with gastronomic expert;
- Private cookery workshop;
- Private wine tasting experience;
- Private tapas walking tour;
- Tasting menu at a Michelin-star restaurant
Flights not included. For more information visit luxurytraveladvisors.co.uk.
Thank you for joining my Chef’s Table Tour of Madrid. The city is a must for any lover of fine food, tradition and luxury. Please follow my miniseries of this culinary journey:
