In the heart of Calpe, where the Mediterranean sun kisses the Valencian shores, stands Orobianco, a culinary sanctuary where the flavors of Italy and Spain converge. This Michelin-starred restaurant has captivated gastronomes with its masterful reinvention of Italian cuisine, seamlessly blending the rich traditions of both nations.
A Michelin-Starred Culinary Haven
Perched atop the hills of Marina Alta, Orobianco is more than just a restaurant—it is a gastronomic pilgrimage. With breathtaking views of the iconic Peñón de Ifach and the shimmering Mediterranean, the setting is as spectacular as the cuisine. Under the visionary leadership of Chef Andrea Drago, Orobianco has earned accolades that cement its status among the elite dining destinations in Spain. A Michelin Star, a Sol Repsol, and a prestigious ranking in the Top 50 Best Italian Restaurants Outside Italy all speak to its exceptional quality and innovative approach to Italian haute cuisine.
Andrea Drago: The Maestro Behind the Magic
Born in Lake Como, Andrea Drago’s culinary journey has been shaped by a deep respect for tradition and an insatiable drive for creativity. His expertise was honed alongside the legendary Paolo Casagrande, the three-Michelin-starred chef of Lasarte in Barcelona. Together, they have forged a new era of Italian fine dining, one that respects heritage while embracing bold innovation.
“At Orobianco, we delve into regional traditions, from the rustic charm of Venetian dishes to the sun-drenched flavors of Sicily. Every plate tells a story, one that celebrates the Mediterranean in its purest form.”
The Art of Reinventing Tradition
Orobianco’s menu is a testament to the restaurant’s unwavering dedication to craftsmanship and creativity. Utilizing the finest local ingredients, Chef Drago curates tasting experiences that transport diners on a sensorial journey. Each dish is a carefully orchestrated balance of flavors, textures, and memories.
Signature creations include A Tribute to Milanese Tradition where Chef Andrea Drago has reimagined the iconic flavors of Risotto alla Milanese with Ossobuco in this new dish: Spaghetto with Saffron, Bone Marrow, and Gremolata.
At the heart of this creation is the gremolata, a traditional blend of garlic, lemon, and parsley typically sprinkled over ossobuco. In his version, it takes the form of a vibrant pesto infused with bergamot notes, highlighting the exceptional citrus from the Valencia region. The dish is finished tableside with a rich, slow-reduced ossobuco sauce, enhancing its depth and intensity.
And of course, as any true Italian dining experience demands, this is a dish best enjoyed with a bit of scarpetta—using a piece of bread to savor every last drop of the exquisite sauce.
This new menu offers a delicate and unexpected dessert: Cardamom Panna Cotta with Celeriac, Pine Nuts, and Kalamansi. Silky and aromatic, the panna cotta is infused with the warm, spiced notes of cardamom, providing a luscious contrast to the subtle earthiness of celeriac. Toasted pine nuts add a satisfying crunch, while a bright, citrusy zing of kalamansi brings a refreshing balance, elevating each spoonful with a perfect harmony of flavors. A refined and surprising finale that lingers in memory long after the last bite.
Their new menu invites you to indulge in a balance of creativity and tradition, where every bite reflects the mastery of Orobianco’s culinary team, where innovation meets nostalgia.
Elevating the Dining Experience
Beyond its remarkable cuisine, Orobianco’s unparalleled service and hospitality elevate the dining experience to new heights. Led by maître d’ Inês Correia, whose expertise spans Michelin-starred institutions like Ocean and Lasarte, the team ensures that each guest feels at home in this temple of gastronomy.
Complementing the culinary artistry is a meticulously curated wine cellar boasting over 400 labels, with a strong emphasis on Spanish and Italian vintages. Whether it’s a golden-roasted pigeon with smoky charred peppers and delicate lavender, which enhances the dish with its subtle floral aroma,, or a grilled red mullet with Sardinian fregola and sea snails, the perfect pairing enhances each dish’s depth and complexity.
A Legacy of Excellence and a Future of Innovation
Orobianco’s journey to the pinnacle of gastronomy has been nothing short of extraordinary. From its Michelin Star and Sol Repsol to its recognition in the 50 Top Italy guide, the restaurant has solidified its reputation as a beacon of Italian excellence in Spain. Chef Drago, along with his dedicated team, continues to push boundaries, crafting a dining experience that is at once intimate, evocative, and unforgettable.
From Spain Life Exclusive we extend an invitation to food lovers and connoisseurs alike to visit Orobianco and embark on a voyage through the Mediterranean’s most exquisite flavors, where every dish is a masterpiece and every visit, is a moment to cherish.
Orobianco Ristorante di Calpe
Address: Urb. Colina del Sol, 49-A, Calpe, Alicante, España
Phone: 96 680 66 61
Email: reservas@orobianco.es
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