These Exceptional Restaurants Receive Michelin Stars

These Spanish restaurants earned Michelin stars as they deliver world class flavors and reimagined dishes to their patrons.

Spain proves yet again that it is not only a country with beautiful landscapes, but it also showcases its palatable cuisine. Three restaurants earned their Michelin stars in November: Noor, Disfrutar, and Venta Moncalvillo.

The Institute of Culinary Education reported that restaurants obtain stars if Michelin deemed their establishment as “the very best.” Recipients enjoy intangible yet vital perks like exposure, prestige, and honor.

Inspectors review the restaurants in complete anonymity and can award them the coveted Michelin stars from one star to the highest three stars. Factors in judging include food quality, presentation and plating, mastery of culinary techniques, and the highest caliber of service.

The Michelin Guide also honors restaurants the special Bib Gourmand award. It recognizes friendly establishments that serve good food at moderate prices.

READ ALSO: Crème De La Crème: The History Behind Michelin Stars And What It Takes To Earn Them

Noor’s take on Andalusian history and culture

Noor stands in Córdoba, Spain. The word means light in Arabic. It gives its patrons a glimpse of Andalusian history and culture through its carefully-curated culinary experience. It received three Michelin stars.

Noor's culinary excellence reverberates in every dish
Noor’s culinary excellence reverberates in every dish/Photo from Javier Peñas via Michelin Guide’s website

Owner Paco Morales spearheads the restaurant through applying his personality as well as inspired innovation. Morales brought the most refined aromas and flavors of Al-Andalus and put in a contemporary charm in every dish.

Chef Paco Morales spreads the love as he receives three Michelin stars for Noor
Chef Paco Morales spreads the love as he receives three Michelin stars for Noor/Photo via Instagram @michelinguide and @gwendalpoullennec

The restaurant is more than a fine-dining restaurant due to its commitment to revive the spirit of Andalusian cuisine. The restaurant consists of a multi-faceted team that contributes new ideas to the table and takes advantage of locally grown ingredients.

Morales and his team successfully reinvented the splendor of the cuisine during its 16th and 17th centuries. 

Three Michelin stars for Disfrutar’s craftsmanship

Disfrutar opened in 2014 due to chefs Mateu Casañas, Oriol Castro and Eduard Xatruch’s hard work. The Spanish restaurant’s name means “enjoy” in English. The Michelin guide bestowed the restaurant three stars.

They paid homage to the history and legacy of the Mediterranean, which can be seen in their common theme. Disfrutar intends customers to feel comfortable with their intimate welcoming manner, and provide a unique experience designed for them to enjoy. 

Chefs Mateu Casañas, Oriol Castro and Eduard Xatruch with their three Michelin stars for Disfrutar
Chefs Mateu Casañas, Oriol Castro and Eduard Xatruch with their three Michelin stars for Disfrutar/Photo via Instagram @disfrutarbcn

Disfrutar’s brilliant chefs made sure that their food is highly innovative as they experiment with different textures and flavors. They display indisputable craftsmanship in every dish plated and served. 

Disfrutar’s solid bubbles of smoked butter with caviar
Disfrutar’s solid bubbles of smoked butter with caviar/Photo via Instagram @disfrutarbcn

Patrons can expect not only an interactive and personalized experience dining in here, but also witness the incredible expertise of their team. The establishment offers a gastronomic affair with daring, modern, and fun twists. 

Venta Moncalvillo offers gastronomy and sustainability

The Michelin Guide awarded two stars for Venta Moncalvillo, a sanctuary located in a privileged natural environment. The restaurant narrated that its close proximity to Daroca River helps water its garden and played a pivotal role in keeping Chef Ignacio Echapresto’s key ingredients fresh.

Chef Ignacio Echapresto poses with a peace sign, receives two Michelin stars for Venta Moncalvillo
Chef Ignacio Echapresto poses with a peace sign, receives two Michelin stars for Venta Moncalvillo/Photo via Instagram @michelinguide and @gwendalpoullennec

Venta Moncalvillo said they have been working on sustainability for many years and have committed to organic farming since 2010. Their latest renovation helped create a sustainable space that is respectful for the environment. 

The bounty of Venta Moncalvillo’s garden
The bounty of Venta Moncalvillo’s garden/Photo from Justo Rodriguez via Michelin Guide’s website

“Since 2022, we have had the Green Michelin Star in recognition of the work carried out,” the restaurant added. 

The restaurant flaunts its tasting menus that change with the seasons as well and explore every ingredient’s biodynamics. They also have a wine cellar that includes gourmet mead produced in the property.

Venta Moncalvillo believes that simple ingredients let flavors shine
Venta Moncalvillo believes that simple ingredients let flavors shine/Photo from Justo Rodriguez via Michelin Guide’s website

The restaurant showcases Echapresto’s dishes being deliberately uncomplicated, allowing flavors to become the central focus. 

“We suggest you let yourself be surprised, as different products parade anonymously around your table,” the restaurant said. 

The prestigious star-governing guide congratulated the restaurants, chefs, and other Michelin awardees

Banner photo via Instagram @disfrutarbcn.

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