When Spanish chef extraordinaire José Pizarro – the ‘Godfather of Spanish Cuisine’ – opened José by Pizarro at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers in March last year, it was his first restaurant outside of his adopted country of the UK. A huge advocate for celebrating, sharing and championing Spanish cuisine, his mission was to bring the richness of Spanish flavours and techniques to a new audience in the capital. One year on, and the chef is back to celebrate the restaurant’s first anniversary and to talk all things birthday-related, from the ultimate party guest-list to his big birthday wish…
Firstly, happy birthday! How did you celebrate your one-year anniversary of José by Pizarro?
I hosted a beautiful culinary event at the restaurant – a Paella Cooking Class and Wine Pairing event, where we learned how to cook traditional dishes, such as pan con tomate, succulent cured beef and truffle croquettes, all served with some beautiful, selected wines.
I heard there was a big birthday brunch celebration too?
Yes! As part of our celebrations, I hosted a preview of a new Spanish brunch that launches in April. It will take diners on a Spanish culinary journey through dishes like gazpacho, spicy prawn fritters and delicious patatas bravas. The idea is to offer guests a true taste of the Mediterranean in the heart of Abu Dhabi.
If you could throw the ultimate birthday party at José by Pizarro, who would be on the guest-list?
It would include friends, family and influential figures in the culinary world – close friends and collaborators who have supported my journey. This goes from my fellow chefs and food critics to loyal patrons of my restaurants, notable Spanish chefs, local food producers and celebrities who appreciate Spanish cuisine.
Sounds like a great night! What’s everyone eating?
The menu would showcase the best of Spanish cuisine, with a mix of my signature dishes and others with traditional Spanish flair. Things like the perfectly sliced 5J Jamón Ibérico, different tapas (like patatas bravas, gambas al ajillo and atún encebollado), rice dishes made with the very finest ingredients and, of course, a selection of Spanish cheeses and wines. I’d also have to create a special dish just for the occasion, something that would reflect my culinary journey.
Talking birthdays, what has been your best celebration to date?
For my 50th, I was surprised with a culinary trip to Hong Kong that I knew absolutely nothing about. I got as far as the gate at Heathrow Airport without knowing where
I was going! I thought I was going to the west coast of Scotland! The second surprise was flying First Class, being met by the chauffeur from my hotel at the airport and staying in the most beautiful suite. It was such a memorable holiday, and I got to try and see so many new things.
As you hit your one-year anniversary of José by Pizarro, any big plans for the year ahead?
I’d like to focus on the consolidation and innovation within my existing restaurants, introducing new dishes and perhaps expanding the culinary experiences offered to my guests, such as cooking classes and wine-tasting events.
And any big five-year plans?
I’d like to open more restaurants, whether in the UK or elsewhere, as I want to bring Spanish cuisine to a broader audience. I’d also like to collaborate with other chefs, write more cookbooks, and even venture into a culinary education project.
Lastly, what are your personal dreams for the year ahead? Hopefully exploring new culinary traditions to incorporate into my repertoire, and learning about and engaging further in sustainable cooking practices. I’d also love to contribute more to the community through my charity work, especially related to food and education. On top of that, I’d like to further expand my brand, and to also mentor the next generation of chefs.