Madrid-born Chef Juan Ignacio García Racionero is set to infuse the seaside ambiance of Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa with the vibrant essence of Spain through his highly anticipated ‘Taste of Spain’ events. Scheduled for Friday, 6 September, and Saturday, 7 September, these culinary showcases will be hosted at the stunning seafront eatery, Big Fish & Bar. The maestro in the kitchen, currently helming the renowned LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar at INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit, promises a four-course feast that will take diners on a delightful gastronomic voyage through Spain’s most beloved flavors. To elevate the experience, optional wine pairings are available, ensuring a mouthwatering journey like no other.
Chef Racionero’s impressive culinary journey reads like a map of Spain’s finest kitchens. His experience spans Michelin-starred restaurants such as Saddle, Diverxo—ranked among the top three in the ‘World’s 50 Best Restaurants’ in 2023—as well as celebrated establishments like El Jardin De La Marquina and Montellen. His decade-long career also includes stints at Puerta 57, Café Pino, Restaurante La Chans, and Rios De Luz, not to mention luxury sojourns at Morlans Hotels and Globales Don Pedro in Mallorca.
From 6 pm onwards, the ‘Taste of Spain’ dinners are priced at THB 3,500++ per couple for the culinary delights alone or THB 4,900++ per couple with the addition of a curated wine pairing. The events will prominently feature Chef Racionero’s standout dishes from LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar.
The culinary parade begins with a tempting lineup of appetizers: traditional jamón croquettes, lime-smoked sardine with Pipirrana salad, pani puri filled with cured Hamachi sashimi and roasted peppers, and crispy layered potato graced with truffled egg yolk and Idiazabal cheese.
The festivities continue with a classic octopus and shrimp paella, after which guests will have the pleasure of choosing between two tantalizing main courses: Iberian pork cheek accompanied by Spanish sauce, mashed potatoes, and fresh vegetables, or a succulent sea bass fillet served with Bilbaina sauce, shallots, and bok choy.
Desserts promise to be just as irresistible, featuring an array of Spanish delights such as Basque cheesecake, Catalan cream mille-feuille with passion fruit, rice pudding with spiced strawberries, and the ultimate Spanish treat—leche frita (fried milk).
Pairing these culinary creations with the perfect beverages is a meticulously chosen selection that includes sparkling white sangria, rosé, classic dry sherry, aromatic white wine, red wine, oxidative-aged dry sherry, crisp white wine, and a captivating dessert cocktail.
“The ‘Taste of Spain’ events are my heartfelt tribute to Spain’s way of life, where we cherish simple pleasures like our world-famous cuisine, stunning sunsets, and laid-back music,” shares Chef Racionero. “It’s an honor to convey my passion for Spanish culinary traditions through what promises to be a transcendent dining experience that lets guests savor the essence of Spain.”
For more information and to secure your reservation, please call +66 (0) 32 904 666, or email [email protected].
This sounds amazing! Chef Racionero’s talent is undeniable. I would love to experience the authentic flavors of Spain right here in Thailand.
It’s great, but is it worth THB 4,900++? That’s a steep price for a meal.
You’re paying for the experience and the quality. Michelin-starred skills don’t come cheap.
Exactly, it’s not just food; it’s an art form. Try looking at it that way.
Hope they have good vegetarian options!
Doesn’t look like it. Spanish cuisine is not very vegetarian-friendly.
I’ve been to LUZ Bangkok, and the food was phenomenal. Can’t wait to see what Chef Racionero brings to Hua Hin.
I think Bangkok has more exciting dining options though. Hua Hin seems a bit dull in comparison.
True, but that’s what makes this event special. A break from the usual.
I don’t understand the hype around this. It’s just food. Why spend so much?
It’s more about the experience and craftsmanship. Do you think art is just paint on a canvas too?
Jeff, just because you don’t get it doesn’t mean others shouldn’t enjoy it!
I get that, but some people have different priorities. Just seems excessive to me.
As a Spaniard living in Thailand, I must say this is an excellent idea. A taste of home is always welcome!
Ramon, where can we find good Spanish food in Thailand other than this event?
LUZ Bangkok is amazing, also try El Tapeo in Bangkok. They have great tapas!
THB 3,500++ is a bit out of my budget, but it sounds divine. Maybe they’ll have a more affordable version someday.
The wine pairing is what caught my eye! Spain has some incredible wines that aren’t as well known. Good choice!
Do we really need another high-end dining experience? Why not something more accessible to everyone?
Not everything has to be for everyone. Some people appreciate high-end experiences.
Jason, it’s called a niche market. There are plenty of affordable options out there.
I think this event is catering to tourists more than locals. How many Thais would actually dine here?
Tourists drive a lot of the hospitality industry here. It makes business sense.
True, but it’s still a shame. Local culture should be more accessible to its people.
I can’t wait to try the octopus and shrimp paella! It’s rare to find good seafood paella outside of Spain.
At those prices, they better have spectacular views to go with the meal!
I love Spanish cuisine! The appetizers sound incredible. Pani puri with Hamachi sashimi? Yes, please.
An interesting fusion indeed. Wonder if purists would approve.
I think food should evolve and blend cultures. That’s what makes it exciting!
I’ve never had leche frita before. Is it really that good?
So cool to see a renowned chef come to Hua Hin. Our town needs more events like this!
Different cultures spotlighting their cuisine is fantastic. But it should be inclusive; everyone should get to try it.