Susi Díaz, a celebrated self-taught chef. Standing as a symbol of perseverance, creativity, and culinary excellence in Spain. With over 36 years of experience, she is the owner and head chef of La Finca, a Michelin-star restaurant found in a historic country house in Elche. Guided by the values instilled by her grandmothers—effort, tenacity, and respect for ingredients, Susi has risen to prominence without formal culinary training. Her story is one of passion and innovation, intertwined with a deep commitment to her community and the environment.
La Finca: A Culinary Temple in Elche
Since its inception, La Finca has embodied the perfect marriage of tradition and innovation. Its menu is a celebration of local flavors, featuring citrus fruits, aromatic herbs, and flowers cultivated in Díaz’s garden, alongside the finest fish and seafood from the region. Susis’ approach blends traditional Mediterranean flavors with international trends, earning the restaurant a Michelin star in 2006 and two Repsol Suns, reflecting its status as a benchmark of Spanish haute cuisine.
Signature dishes like her arroz meloso with galeras, a creamy rice dish finished with a deboned red mullet, epitomize her philosophy of showcasing local, sustainable ingredients. “The key to great cooking,” Susi often says, “is to value the product, respect its origins, and treat it with care.”
A Star Beyond the Kitchen
Susis’ impact extends far beyond the walls of her restaurant. Over the years, she has become a familiar face in Spanish media, contributing to radio programs such as “Las mañanas de Pepa Fernández” on RNE and serving as a judge on the popular television show Top Chef for four seasons. Her appearances have made her a household name, inspiring countless aspiring chefs across the country.
But Susi is not just a culinary icon; she is a humanitarian. As an ambassador for “Restaurants Against Hunger,” an initiative by Action Against Hunger, she has championed efforts to combat food insecurity and exclusion in Spain. For 15 years, she has participated in this campaign, offering “solidarity dishes” like her arroz meloso to raise funds for families in need. “No one should go without a nutritious meal,” she says, underscoring the importance of using her platform to drive change.
In addition to this work, Susi joined forces with chef Paco Roncero and the UNHCR in Ghana, contributing to a documentary that highlights the importance of solidarity. Her efforts have cemented her status as a chef who not only nourishes the palate but also uplifts the human spirit.
Accolades and Achievements
Díaz’s dedication has earned her numerous prestigious awards, including:
- National Hospitality Award (2019): Recognizing her entrepreneurial spirit and contributions to the culinary world.
- Ambassador of the Mediterranean Diet (2021): Honored by the ASDM for promoting healthy and sustainable eating habits.
- President of Saborea España (2022): Acknowledging her leadership in promoting Spanish gastronomy on a global stage.
- Sustainable Sun Award (2023): Awarded by the Repsol Guide for La Finca’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
- Extraordinary Woman of the Year (2024): Presented by ONDA CERO in recognition of her trailblazing career and humanitarian efforts.
Susi has also been immortalized in her hometown of Elche, where the “Jardí Cuinera Susi Díaz” was inaugurated in her honor. Reflecting on her journey Susi says, “What I would give to have a documentary about my grandmothers. I’m grateful to pass on my story to future generations.”
“The Flavor of Flowers”: A Life in Film
Susi Díaz’s life and legacy have been chronicled in the documentary “El sabor de las flores” (The Flavor of Flowers), directed by Marta López Plaza. The film captures Susis’ journey from her grandmother’s kitchen to the heights of culinary fame, celebrating her creativity, resilience, and dedication to her craft.
For Susi, the project is not just a tribute to her achievements but also a gift to her family and the broader community, this documentary showcases her passion for cooking and her unwavering commitment to promoting values like empathy and sustainability.
“Perhaps my story will inspire courageous women to pursue their dreams as I have pursued mine” .
Cooking with a Purpose
Susis’ approach to cooking is deeply philosophical. She views the kitchen not just as a workplace but as a platform for education and social change. Her campaigns against food waste and her advocacy for sustainable practices resonate with her belief that “we need to educate children to change collective behaviors.”
Through initiatives like Restaurants Against Hunger, Díaz has proven that the culinary world can be a force for good. “A plate of food is more than nourishment,” she says. “It’s an opportunity to reflect on our values and responsibilities to one another.”
The Ingredients of Success
When asked what makes the world a “Michelin-star dish,” Susi’s response is simple yet profound: “You can never add too much love to a dish. What the world needs is less of is selfishness and more empathy.”
From her garden in Elche to kitchens and campaigns worldwide, Susi Díaz’s story is one of love, resilience, and vision. She has not only redefined Spanish gastronomy but also set an inspiring example of how passion and purpose can create lasting change. For Díaz, the ultimate reward is not just a star or an award—it is the ability to touch lives, one plate at a time.
Experience Culinary Excellence and Sustainability at La Finca
Restaurante La Finca en Elche.
Susi Díaz’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of passion, dedication, and purpose. From her humble beginnings in the kitchen to her rise as one of Spain’s most celebrated chefs, Susi has demonstrated that true success lies not only in culinary mastery but in the ability to use food as a platform for social change. Her philosophy, driven by empathy and a commitment to sustainability, continues to inspire future generations of chefs and food lovers alike.
Through her work, both in the kitchen and in her humanitarian efforts, Susi proves that the true essence of cooking is not just about creating exquisite dishes, it’s about nurturing the soul and uplifting others. As she continues to lead by example, Susi Díaz remains a beacon of hope, resilience, and love in the world of gastronomy.
For reservations and more information, visit:
Camino de Perleta, 1.7, Elche
Phone: +34 965 45 60 07
Email: info@lafinca.es
