José Andrés

Chef and Owner, ThinkFoodGroup

About This Expert

José Andrés, a renowned chef hailing from Spain, is the creative force behind ThinkFoodGroup. This dynamic team is responsible for some of Washington D.C.’s most acclaimed dining establishments, including Jaleo, Zaytinya, Oyamel, Café Atlantico, and the critically acclaimed minibar by josé andrés. Additionally, Los Angeles boasts The Bazaar by José Andrés, a premier dining destination located in the SLS Hotel at Beverly Hills. ThinkFoodGroup oversees all of José’s innovative projects, from cookbooks and television programming to concept consulting and project development.

Born in Asturias and raised near Barcelona, José Andrés discovered his passion for cooking at the age of 15. He honed his skills at the prestigious School of Restaurants and Hotels of Barcelona and trained at Michelin-starred restaurants, including the legendary El Bulli under the tutelage of Master Chef Ferran Adrià. José brought his expertise to the U.S., initially working with Rob Wilder and Roberto Alvarez’s Proximo restaurants in Washington D.C.

José’s impact on the American culinary scene began at Jaleo, one of the first successful tapas restaurants in the U.S., which set the benchmark for Spanish cuisine nationwide. He then transformed Café Atlantico into a culinary hotspot and followed up with the openings of Zaytinya and Oyamel, each earning critical acclaim. His innovative minibar by josé andrés was lauded by Food & Wine as the catalyst for the Spanish food revolution in America, and The New York Times dubbed him the “boy wonder of culinary Washington.”

Throughout his illustrious career, José Andrés has garnered praise from the public, the press, and his peers for his visionary restaurant concepts. The James Beard Foundation awarded him “Best Chef: Mid Atlantic” in 2003, inducted him into the Who’s Who of Food & Beverage in America in 2007, and nominated him for “Outstanding Chef” multiple times. Bon Appétit named him “Chef of the Year” in 2004, and he has been featured in Food & Wine’s “35 under 35” Tastemakers and Saveur’s “Saveur 100” list.

Often referred to as Spain’s unofficial ambassador to the United States, José Andrés is the host and executive producer of the PBS series “Made in Spain,” showcasing the rich culinary traditions of his homeland. He has authored several cookbooks, including “Made in Spain: Spanish Dishes for the American Kitchen” and “Tapas: A Taste of Spain in America.” His Spanish TV show “Vamos a Cocinar” was a groundbreaking success and continues to air across Latin America.

José is a regular guest on prominent television and radio programs such as NBC’s “Today,” “Martha Stewart Show,” CBS’s “Early Show,” ABC’s “Nightline,” NPR’s “Splendid Table” and “All Things Considered,” Food Network’s “Iron Chef,” Bravo’s “Top Chef,” and “No Reservations” with Tony Bourdain. He has also appeared on late-night shows with David Letterman, Conan O’Brien, and Craig Ferguson.

As Chairman Emeritus for DC Central Kitchen, José Andrés is dedicated to fighting hunger and providing culinary training opportunities. His contributions were recognized by the Secretary of Commerce, who appointed him to the U.S. Travel and Tourism Advisory Board.

José Andrés resides in Maryland with his wife and three daughters, continuing to inspire with his culinary expertise and philanthropic efforts.