 |
Paco RonceroChef
Country:
 Spain |
Content:
- Biography of Paco Roncero
- The Journey to Becoming a Chef
- Mentorship with Ferran Adria
- The Concept of La Terraza del Casino
- Olive Oil and Culinary Creativity
- Leadership Style and Handling Challenges
- The Popularity and Success of La Terraza del Casino
- The Experience of the Private Banquet Room
- Dream Dinner Guests and Personal Tastes
- The Intersection of Photography and Culinary Art
- Madrid's Obsession with Food
- Memorable Compliments
- Favorite Dining Spots in London and Madrid
Biography of Paco Roncero
Paco Roncero, a renowned chef, is known for his exceptional culinary skills and has catered to the likes of Elton John, Antonio Banderas, Melanie Griffith, famous politicians, and musicians. His presence in the kitchen guarantees the success of any star-studded event, from a culinary standpoint.
The Journey to Becoming a Chef
When asked how he became a chef, Paco Roncero admits that it happened by chance. He stumbled upon a culinary college and declared to his father that he wanted to become a chef. Although his father wasn't thrilled, Paco pursued his passion wholeheartedly. His journey into the culinary world felt like falling in love and losing his head all at once.
Mentorship with Ferran Adria
In 1998, while studying at a hospitality school, Paco had the opportunity to work with legendary chef and restaurateur Ferran Adria. They collaborated at El Bulli and Paco's current restaurant, La Terraza del Casino. Adria taught him that cooking is a scientific experiment, emphasizing the importance of exploring different cooking techniques and ingredients. Adria's talent made him the number one chef in the world in Paco's eyes. Learning from him personally was an incredible stroke of luck.
The Concept of La Terraza del Casino
La Terraza del Casino, located in Madrid, is one of the most prestigious and well-known restaurants in Spain, and Paco Roncero is at its helm. The restaurant, which previously had Adria as its head chef, has been awarded two Michelin stars. The concept of the restaurant focuses on highlighting the natural flavors of ingredients, rather than masking them. It is known as an avant-garde cuisine, utilizing various cooking techniques, such as liquid nitrogen, cooking at low temperatures, and high-pressure techniques. Each chef at the restaurant has their own unique touch.
Olive Oil and Culinary Creativity
Paco Roncero has gained recognition for his expertise in working with olive oil. He has even managed to create a paella without rice, using olive oil to create artful designs. Olive oil became a central ingredient for him due to its diverse properties, allowing for different cooking methods that enhance high cuisine. Each variety of olive oil has its own aroma and bouquet, similar to wine. Paco has even mastered the technique of freezing olive oil, extracting its fat to create a butter-like texture that is even more beneficial.
Leadership Style and Handling Challenges
While Paco Roncero is known for his kindness towards guests and journalists, he does not exhibit a tyrannical or loud behavior in the kitchen, unlike some famous TV chefs. He dislikes shouting and avoids creating unnecessary problems. If something goes wrong, he takes responsibility as the head chef and seeks to find a solution rather than causing a scene. He approaches problems directly and resolves them privately, without involving other staff members or customers.
The Popularity and Success of La Terraza del Casino
Despite the ongoing economic crisis, La Terraza del Casino remains fully booked at all times. The restaurant's popularity can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, it is located within a private club, and its members act as ambassadors, inviting friends and acquaintances out of curiosity. Additionally, being the successor to Ferran Adria's legacy plays a significant role in attracting customers. The restaurant's interior, cuisine, and Paco's reputation receive extensive coverage, drawing in new guests. The emergence of food bloggers has also contributed to generating interest. The restaurant's secret weapon is its private banquet room, reserved only for the best customers. After experiencing this unique dining setting, people become lifelong fans.
The Experience of the Private Banquet Room
The private banquet room at La Terraza del Casino offers more than just a dinner; it provides a captivating performance. Guests are unaware of what to expect as they are led through the restaurant's lobby, guided by the maître d'. Once inside the room, they encounter a surprise: a massive table, an open kitchen-theater, ever-changing lighting, music, scents, and video slideshows tailored to accompany each dish. The table itself constantly transforms, resembling an avant-garde culinary theater or a gastronomic journey. Some dishes are recommended to be eaten with the hands, creating a blend of gastronomic and tactile pleasure.
Dream Dinner Guests and Personal Tastes
When asked whom he would invite to this immersive dining experience, Paco expresses a desire to gather a warm company of beautiful women and treat them to an unforgettable dinner. While he enjoys haute cuisine, his everyday meals are often traditional dishes such as paella and spaghetti.
The Intersection of Photography and Culinary Art
Paco Roncero has ventured into photography, primarily capturing images of food. Photography shares many similarities with culinary art, as both involve creativity and technology. The composition and angle choices in photography have helped him develop analytical skills that he applies to arranging his dishes. As for exhibiting his photography, it is a possibility for the future.
Madrid's Obsession with Food
The reputation of Madrid's exceptional cuisine stems from the locals' hearty appetite. As the capital city, Madrid attracts talented young chefs who come here to further their skills and learn something new.
Memorable Compliments
Paco Roncero receives constant praise, but one particular compliment stands out for him. During a private dinner in the secret room, six guests from England informed him that they had purchased the experience at an auction for £36,000. The businessman explained that it was not about the money, as he had plenty, but about the lack of time. He expressed gratitude for the unforgettable experience Paco provided them.
Favorite Dining Spots in London and Madrid
When in London, Paco enjoys Asian cuisine and frequents Zuma, Hakkasan, and Yauatcha. In Madrid, he recommends purchasing food from the gastronomic section of El Corte Ingles, his favorite department store, or visiting the San Miguel Market. As for restaurants, he holds chef Oscar Velasco, who recently received a second Michelin star, in high regard. He also praises Ramon Freixa's restaurant. When it comes to Japanese cuisine, Paco's favorite restaurant in Madrid is Janatomo.
