A MasterChef Talent on the Costa Blanca
Perched above the blue coast of Finestrat, Strat is the personal culinary project of Claire Hutchings, winner of MasterChef: The Professionals Rematch. Known for her refined creativity and love of Mediterranean flavors, Claire brings international technique and personal flair to every dish on the menu.
After working in renowned kitchens across Europe and earning a name for herself on television, Claire moved to the Costa Blanca drawn by the proximity of the Mediterranean Sea. Inspired by the land and light of the region, she and her partner opened Strat in 2024 as a destination for those seeking bold flavors, relaxed elegance, and honest hospitality.
A Restaurant Rooted in Passion and Precision
Strat is not just another fine dining spot—it’s a place where food tells a story. Claire’s cuisine reflects her classical training, global travels, and deep respect for local produce. At Strat, creativity meets comfort, with dishes that showcase bold combinations, beautiful textures, and unexpected twists.
The setting is just as thoughtful. Located near the quiet Cala de Finestrat, Strat offers warm, attentive service and a serene space with sea views—ideal for slow, intentional dining.
Must-Try Dishes from a MasterChef Winner
There are some dishes that define Strat—and Claire Hutchings. If it’s your first time visiting, don’t leave without trying the suckling lamb curry, the very dish that won her the MasterChef title. Slow-cooked and deeply spiced, it’s served with basmati rice, mango, cashew, and cucumber for a vibrant, warming plate that balances richness and freshness.
Another signature? The Lúa dessert, named after Claire’s daughter. This beautiful dish features sheep’s milk panna cotta, herbal apple, citrus meringue, and apple sorbet, finished with olive and herb details. It’s elegant, surprising, and loved by regulars and newcomers alike.
The octopus has also become a staple—tender, charred, and beautifully paired with seasonal elements. You’ll also find the vidriera on the snacks section of the tasting menu — delicate and crisp, filled with rich smoked eel and crème fraîche. It’s a small bite, but full of flavour.
Among the best-selling mains is the turbot, which showcases Claire’s finesse with seafood, always paired with local vegetables and sauces that change with the seasons.
A Dedicated Vegan Offering: More Than an Afterthought
I want to give the same experience to every customer, no matter what their food preferences or allergies are, says Claire Hutchings.
Strat also makes space for plant-based dining, treating vegan guests with the same attention to flavor, presentation, and creativity.
Claire has created dedicated vegan dishes, available both on the tasting or the seasonal menu. These are not simply substitutions but fully realized plates with depth and identity.
A standout is the fresh handmade pasta with boletus mushrooms, pumpkin purée, and truffle oil—a dish that’s earthy, creamy, and comforting. Another vegan favorite is the cauliflower with curry, served with onion bhaji, cilantro pickles, and layered spices that draw from Indian flavors while using locally sourced vegetables.
This approach to vegan cuisine has made Strat a top choice on the Costa Blanca for guests with dietary preferences or simply those who appreciate plant-based food done right.
Tasting Menus and Seasonal Surprises
For those who want the full experience, Strat offers tasting menus that change throughout the year. Guests can opt for the Mediterranean tasting menu, which includes many of the house favorites, or explore a Japanese-inspired tasting menu with sushi, grilled fish, and Claire’s personal twist.
Importantly, a vegan tasting option is also available and receives the same level of care and plating finesse. Whether you’re celebrating or simply curious, the tasting menus offer a journey through flavors, textures, and stories—all rooted in Claire’s evolving vision.
A Destination for Flavor, Atmosphere, and Meaning
At Strat, every detail matters. From the menu to the music, the lighting to the tableware, Claire and her team have crafted an experience that feels both intimate and elevated. It’s the kind of restaurant that rewards curiosity—where returning guests are always met with something new, and first-timers are instantly made to feel at home.
Whether you’re coming for the MasterChef-winning lamb, a vegan culinary surprise, or a quiet evening near the sea, Strat delivers a dining experience that’s fresh, thoughtful, and deeply personal.
