Etxebarri’s Fire Ignites: Basque Grill Roars to Second Best in World
The culinary world is ablaze with excitement as the Asador Etxebarri, nestled in the heart of the Basque Country, has been named the second-best restaurant globally. This recognition in the 2025 edition of The World’s 50 Best Restaurants solidifies its place among haute cuisine’s elite.
A Master of Embers and Excellence
The restaurant, located in Axpe-Atxondo, received this prestigious honor this past Thursday in Turin. This achievement affirms the innovative approach of chef Bittor Arginzoniz, whose restaurant once again shines as a beacon of gastronomic brilliance. The Etxebarri grill continues to be a global reference point.
Adding to the accolades, Asador Etxebarri was also celebrated as Europe’s finest restaurant, leading continental representation at the awards ceremony. Furthermore, the restaurant’s sommelier, Mohamed Benabdallah, was lauded as the world’s best, highlighting the outstanding service that complements the exceptional cuisine.
“Without artifice or fashion concessions, its proposal is based on a direct relationship with the raw material, on the domain of the embers and in a very personal way of understanding high gastronomy: silent, patient, honest.”
—From the original article.
The World’s 50 Best Restaurants awards reflect a global movement. The awards highlight a restaurant’s commitment to sourcing local ingredients and sustainable practices, which is a growing trend. According to a recent report, the farm-to-table movement has seen a 20% increase in popularity over the last year (Local Food Trends 2024).
The Etxebarri Philosophy: Simplicity and Truth
Bittor Arginzoniz’s unique approach, centered around product, fire, and truth, is what makes Etxebarri stand out. His cooking style shuns pretense, focusing on the relationship with raw ingredients and masterful ember control. His work, born in a hamlet on the Anboto hillside, is now admired worldwide.
This success is not by chance but the product of years of dedication. Etxebarri has become an emblem of the region, and of European cuisine as a whole, and its consistent performance on the global stage underscores its enduring quality.
A New Champion and a Timeless Approach
In this edition, Mitsuharu “Micha” Tsumura’s Maido from Peru claimed first place, impressing the audience with his speech, and his team. Etxebarri secured the second spot, followed by Quintonil (Mexico), Diverxo (Madrid), and Alchemist (Denmark).
The 2025 awards show that Asador Etxebarri’s success is not fleeting. Arginzoniz’s kitchen invites guests to pause and appreciate the essential elements of gastronomy. Etxebarri’s unique voice continues to inspire people everywhere.
