A Foodie’s Unforgettable Encounter with Rafael Anson

I like to think of myself as a foodie. I do. I’ll never go to the same restaurant twice so I can try new ones. People often come to me for recommendations. I am not afraid of spending my hard earned money on a gastronomical experience — often spending more than I’d like to admit. In DC, one of my greatest accomplishments is having eaten at 90 of the 100 Washingtonian magazine’s 100 best restaurants (10 more to go!) But, all of these accomplishments were trumped the night I and my fellow Hispanic Leaders shared an unforgettable culinary journey with Rafael Ansón of the Royal Academy of Gastronomy at Zalacain in Madrid.

On the night of November 14th, we walk into what seems from the exterior to be an unassuming restaurant and are immediately transported to a private dining room where we are greeted with bubbles, no not just any bubbles, but the only bubbles that matter — “Veuve Cliquot Rose” bubbles. Rafael, you had me at Veuve.

Although the bubbles were enough to make anyone feel welcome, Rafael greets us with such warmth and happiness that it is apparent that not only is he a culinary expert, but he loves sharing his craft.

With each course, Rafael weaves in his expansive knowledge of Spanish gastronomy providing us with the history and imploring the need for a sustainable means of food creation. While my brain is processing what he is saying, my taste buds are exploding with a heightened sense of excitement as if they too know they are experiencing a once in a lifetime kind of moment.

The course pairings were spot on and throughout the night, I felt the Spanish opulence, mastery and culinary prowess that has marked this country for centuries and frankly, rightfully so.

With each course, each bite, each flavor, my palette and my heart felt one step closer to “La Madre Patria” and one step closer to home. Gracias, Rafael. You are an incredible culinary tour guide and expert. Nunca olvidaremos esta experiencia.