Martín Berasategui Olazábal is a Spanish chef renowned for his expertise in Basque cuisine. He is the owner of an eponymous restaurant located in Lasarte-Oria, Gipuzkoa, Spain. Since 2001, his restaurant has been awarded three Michelin stars, making it one of the most prestigious culinary establishments. Interestingly, Berasategui holds a total of twelve Michelin stars, which is more than any other Spanish chef.

At the age of 14, Berasategui began working in his parents’ restaurant, Bodegón Alejandro. His culinary journey started long before Michelin-starred restaurants existed in the Basque Country.
Training in France: When he was 17, Berasategui was sent to France to train as a pastry chef. This experience significantly influenced his culinary skills and knowledge.
By the age of 25, he took over his parents’ restaurant and earned his first Michelin star there. His dedication and talent were evident from an early age.
In 1993, Berasategui opened his own restaurant in Lasarte-Oria, just outside San Sebastián. This restaurant was awarded a third Michelin star in the 2001 Michelin Guide.
His restaurant has consistently been recognized globally. It was voted the 29th-best restaurant in the world by Restaurant in both 2008 and 2011, marking its high standing on the international culinary scene.
Apart from Restaurante Martín Berasategui, he also holds three Michelin stars at Restaurante Lasarte in Barcelona and two at M.B. in Tenerife (the largest of the Canary Islands).
Berasategui owns six other restaurants worldwide, including two in the Dominican Republic and one in Mexico. He even has plans to open another restaurant in Costa Rica.
In 2013, the François Rabelais University awarded him an honorary doctorate in culinary studies, a significant recognition for his contributions to the culinary world.
His culinary journey is truly remarkable, and his passion for Basque cuisine continues to inspire food enthusiasts around the globe.

Curated by the World Culinary Awards