In the heart of La Nucía, Alicante, lies El Xato, a restaurant that has transcended its origins as a tapas bar to become a beacon of Mediterranean haute cuisine. Led by chef Cristina Figueira, the restaurant combines over a century of history with a modern, sustainable vision of gastronomy. With a Michelin star since 2018, El Xato is much more than a restaurant; it’s a place where memories are made and friendships are forged.
Cristina Figueira: An Inspiring Journey
Cristina Figueira’s culinary journey began over 30 years ago, almost by chance, when she started helping her mother-in-law Esperanza in what was then a family-run bar. From those humble beginnings, Cristina discovered her passion for cooking and decided to pursue it professionally. She studied at the CDT in Benidorm and completed stages in some of the world’s best restaurants, including El Celler de Can Roca, Martín Berasategui, and Can Fabes. These experiences deeply shaped her culinary vision, allowing her to integrate haute cuisine techniques into her work.
Cristina describes her cuisine as a fusion of environment and memory, where traditional flavors are reinvented to offer a contemporary gastronomic experience. Her connection with customers is a cornerstone of her philosophy: “I want customers to enter as guests and leave as friends,” she proudly states.
El Xato: Over a Century of History
The story of El Xato dates back to 1915 when Pedro Balaguer Orts and Jerónima Cano Pérez founded the winery “Ti Pere el Tardá.” Over generations, the business evolved, adapting to social and economic changes. From its early days as a tapas bar, El Xato grew under the direction of the Cano family and, more recently, with Cristina’s culinary leadership.
El Xato has transformed with each generation while staying true to its roots. Cristina’s arrival in the kitchen marked a turning point, taking the restaurant to new heights with a focus on culinary innovation and sustainability.
The Cuisine of El Xato: Mediterranean Tradition with a Modern Twist
El Xato’s culinary offering is a tribute to local products and sustainability. Cristina and her team have crafted two tasting menus that invite diners to rediscover Mediterranean roots with a modern approach:
- Menú Tentaciones: Features four snacks, five main courses, two desserts, and petit fours, all for €85. Guests can enhance the experience by pairing seven carefully selected wines for €130.
- Menú Centenario: A more extensive experience, offering eight main courses, two desserts, and petit fours for €102. With a pairing of ten wines, the price rises to €168.
Both menus are crafted with locally sourced ingredients and innovative techniques, reflecting Cristina’s commitment to environmental respect and culinary excellence.
The Wine List: A Tribute to Alicante and Beyond
El Xato’s wine list is a treasure in its own right, boasting over 1,000 references to national and international wines. Its sommelier, Francisco Cano, specializes in showcasing the wines of Alicante and rediscovering the richness of the Valencian Community. Among its highlights is Fondillón, a unique wine that embodies the region’s winemaking tradition.
Recognition for Effort and Excellence
The Michelin Star Award in 2018 was a dream come true for Cristina and her team, a testament to years of constant work and dedication. However, for Cristina, the greatest achievement is the satisfaction of her customers, who affirm her success day after day.
A Complete Experience: Menus, Pairings, and Gifts
El Xato not only offers exceptional dining experiences but also allows guests to share its magic through unique gifts. From tasting menus with wine pairings to gift boxes, these options enable the El Xato experience to extend beyond the restaurant’s walls, taking diners on an unforgettable sensory journey.
Finca La Era: An Exceptional Venue in Benidorm
Located just 10 minutes from Benidorm’s city center, Finca La Era is a stunning venue surrounded by orange groves and breathtaking views of the Serra Gelada. Managed by El Xato Events, it’s ideal for weddings, corporate events, and private celebrations, offering elegance, convenience, and top-tier service.
Venue Highlights
Finca La Era is fully equipped to accommodate a variety of events with distinct spaces tailored to different needs:
- Carpa (Canopy): A covered area for banquets, adaptable to weather conditions.
- Jardín (Garden): A picturesque setting featuring lush greenery, perfect for romantic ceremonies.
- Cocktail Area: A serene space by the pool for drinks and entertainment.
- Chill-Out Zone & Kids’ Area: Spaces for relaxation and children’s enjoyment.
With full accessibility, ample parking, and modern facilities, the venue ensures every guest feels comfortable.
Weddings, Corporate Events, and Private Celebrations
- Weddings: El Xato Catering, led by Michelin-starred chef Cristina Figueira, provides personalized menus, decor, and coordination for a flawless day.
- Corporate Events: Impress clients and teams with executive menus and customized setups for conferences, gala dinners, and product launches.
- Private Celebrations: From themed parties to baptisms and anniversaries, El Xato Catering transforms any space into a memorable experience with tailored menus, decor, and full coordination.
Gourmet Menus for Every Occasion
El Xato Catering delivers exceptional cuisine for all events, from coffee breaks and cocktail receptions to multi-course dinners. Crafted with a blend of tradition and innovation, the menus elevate any celebration.
Plan Your Event
Whether you’re envisioning an intimate gathering or a grand event, Finca La Era offers unmatched service and a breathtaking setting. Contact El Xato Catering to create an unforgettable experience at this or other venues across Alicante and the Marina Baixa.
El Xato, Where Gastronomy Connects with the Soul
El Xato is a place where tradition and innovation converge to offer a unique experience. Under the visionary leadership of Cristina Figueira, the restaurant has not only achieved a Michelin star but has also maintained its family essence and connection to the community. For those seeking authentic Mediterranean cuisine with a contemporary touch, El Xato is a must-visit.
Restaurant
+34 965 870 931
C/Iglesia, 3 – 03530 La Nucía
Weddings and events
673 399 153
