Exploring Asturias with Chef José Andrés
A Day in a Chef’s Life
Despite having a scheduled interview, catching Chef José Andrés is quite the challenge. During my five-day trip in his hometown of Asturias, Spain, I immerse myself in the local mountains, beaches, and most importantly, the cuisine. This tour, created in partnership with Capital One Venture X cardholders, features curated menus at Capital One lounges.
Andrés seems to pop in and out like an apparition. He shows up unexpectedly at our welcome dinner, vanishing into the kitchen to connect with friends, then emerging late in the evening. My jet-lagged self struggles against the local time, and as I pass him on my way out, he cheerfully announces his plans to “smoke a cigar” and perhaps hit the disco.
Photo courtesy of Letizia Cigluitti
A Glimpse into His World
Andrés has just transitioned from the West Coast to Spain, enduring a difficult travel day while battling a nine-hour time difference. He reassures me, “Don’t worry, I will get my eight hours,” with an earnest tone.
Over the next few days, his pattern is consistent. During a local market tour, his cousin joins us, and it seems like everyone in town is a friend. He stops for selfies, chats with locals, and constantly moves from one engagement to another. I learn that he travels with a French press, prompting me to wonder how much coffee I’d need to be as productive as he is.
Culinary Adventures
Andrés is a whirlwind, always in motion. He mingles with chefs and the public, happy with a glass of local cider in hand. We walk part of the Camino, an ancient pilgrimage route, and visit a cheese cave in the Picos de Europa mountains where some of Spain’s best cheeses are produced. Each meal, whether at a humble seaside spot or a Michelin-starred restaurant, is chosen by Andres and delicious in unique ways.
Photo courtesy of Letizia Cigluitti
Passion Beyond Food
Throughout the trip, he shares stories about his projects beyond restaurants, like creating an ideal blue cheese in honor of his mother and designing the perfect paella pan. His dedication extends to humanitarian work as well, with World Central Kitchen, which assists individuals in conflict zones around the world. “It’s not always easy, but it’s the right thing to do,” he states with conviction.
Later, he shows me his latest venture into the Marvel Universe as a superhero in Spider-Man: Meals to Astonish: Avengers #1, lightheartedly detailing changes made to honor his identity.
A Lasting Impression
Our paths barely align for a formal interview, often finding him engaged with local chefs preparing seafood or joining community traditions. By the trip’s end, I suggest postponing our conversation, considering the myriad experiences we’ve shared. Just when I think I might miss my opportunity, he surprises me with a thoughtful gesture: “I went to the market to get you tomatoes because I remembered that you like them.”
As I enjoy a simple yet exquisite dish he prepared, I realize I’ve gained insights into his passion for food and community without the need for formal questions. Filled with inspiration, I look forward to reading his book, Change the Recipe: Because You Can’t Build a Better World Without Breaking Some Eggs, and rediscovering the joy of cooking.
Photo courtesy of Letizia Cigluitti
In the end, it’s clear that wherever he may go, Andrés leaves behind a trail of good food and good will, fueled by an insatiable passion for his craft.
