Luxury Link Lifestyle Spring 2014 | Page 22

madrid While there are more than After the unfortunate passing of Santamaría, 3,000 places to eat in Madrid, it’s Velasco has continued to develop a menu each still amazing to see the number of Michelin stars distributed throughout season with a clear multicultural emphasis that the Spanish capital. Chefs developing menus and restaurants at this represents the cultures that have converged in level are the very reason Spanish cuisine continues to expand globally, Madrid. becoming more appreciated by an international audience. “Santceloni is an elegant and stylish dining There are many culinary excursions are waiting to be explored throughout the entire city, making a centrally-located hotel imperative to experiencing the true Madrid. Hesperia Madrid is at the center of the action providing a sophisticated and chic place to call home while visiting this exciting city. Not just a stylish hotel for visitors, but also an ideal meeting place for locals, Hesperia Madrid offers a unique experience with great harmony,” described Velasco. The entire team collaborates each night to continue the traditions and standards established by Chef Santamaría, as they “respect raw materials, give importance to local produce and use techniques in the kitchen service, while maintaining authenticity as the selection of restaurants and standard.” bars to satisfy almost any desire. Striving to delight both locals and international tourists, Velasco’s all-time favorite dish is his When only the best will do, the ultimate culinary destination when in Madrid is Santceloni – the shining Michelin star of Hesperia Madrid. The history of this restaurant stimulating is as almost the as food served by Chef Óscar Velasco and his team each night. Opened in 2001 with Santi Santamaría leading the way as one of the country’s most famous chefs and owner of Can Fabes, Santceloni earned its first Michelin star within a year, followed by a second in 2003. Since then, the restaurant continues to wow guests each night with beautifully inventive cuisine. 22 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE Segovia-style roast suckling pig (from the region where he was raised), and a seasonal favorite is the restaurant’s famous artichoke, celeriac and black truffle with ham and rye juice.