Nestled in the heart of Calpe, Orobianco Ristorante has solidified its position as one of Spain’s finest culinary destinations, thanks to the visionary leadership of head chef Andrea Drago. Since his arrival 1.5 years ago, Andrea has transformed Orobianco into a Michelin-star restaurant, attracting food enthusiasts who eagerly return to explore its diverse and meticulously crafted menus.
Andrea’s Culinary Journey
Andrea’s path to becoming a Michelin-starred chef began in Italy, where he honed his skills in some of the country’s finest kitchens. His early experiences in Italian restaurants led him to Como, where he refined his techniques at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel’s exclusive restaurant. This foundation of high-end cuisine laid the groundwork for his later success.
Andrea’s international career took him from Italy to London, where he worked at a smaller, more intimate restaurant.
Andrea’s culinary journey deepened in Barcelona, where he honed his skills under the mentorship of Paolo Casagrande at Lasarte, a restaurant distinguished by its three Michelin stars. It was Paolo who recognized Andrea’s talent and potential, subsequently appointing him as the head chef at Orobianco. This partnership allowed Andrea to infuse his Italian culinary foundation with the sophisticated influences he embraced in Barcelona.
Now, as the creative force at Orobianco, Andrea leads a dedicated team of eight Italians in the kitchen. Together, they have crafted a unique Michelin-starred Italian-Mediterranean experience, offering three distinct menus that draw diners back to explore new flavors time and again.
The Menus
Orobianco’s culinary offerings center around three exceptional menus, each showcasing Andrea’s dedication to seasonal ingredients and innovative combinations.
1. The Orobianco Menu (€140)
This flagship menu consists of seven courses and reflects Andrea’s vision of modern Italian cuisine, infused with Mediterranean elements. Highlights include the Squid Tartare with almond, guanciale, and cured yolk, a delicate interplay of textures and umami. Other standout dishes include Paccheri paired with Norway lobster and caviar, and Crustaceans Risotto, which combines red prawns with a fermented lemon for a tangy finish. This menu is a favorite among returning diners, offering an elevated dining experience that is well worth the price tag.
2. The Tasting Menu (€170)
For those seeking the ultimate exploration of Orobianco’s cuisine, the Tasting Menu presents a curated selection of seasonal specialties. Standout dishes include the Rabbit Pesto with almond and chufa, and the Linguina with tomato, oyster, and langoustine ceviche. The menu also features a decadent Red Mullet with fregola and sea snails, followed by Sirloin served with bone marrow and marinara. For dessert, a refreshing Cardamom Pannacotta accompanied by celeriac, cassis, and peanut completes the sensory experience. This is a journey for diners seeking to immerse themselves in the full spectrum of Andrea’s culinary mastery.
3. The Market Menu (89€)
With the new season of Autumn upon us, Orobianco unveils its latest culinary creation: the Market Menu, priced at 89€. This ever-evolving dining experience adapts to the rhythms of nature, offering guests a celebration of the transient and the beautiful in every bite. Available only from Wednesday to Friday at midday, the Market Menu is a delicate four-part symphony that starts with three small snacks to awaken the palate, followed by two starters highlighting the freshest market flavors, a choice of a main dish featuring the week’s finest ingredients, and concludes with a dessert and an exquisite petit-four for a sweet, elegant finish.
Andrea’s Philosophy and Vision
When asked about his philosophy, Andrea emphasizes the importance of teamwork and creating memorable dining experiences. “The satisfaction of our guests is the ultimate reward,” he says. His focus on local ingredients—sourced from nearby Altea and the Costa Blanca’s coast—underlines his commitment to sustainability and quality.
Looking ahead, Andrea is committed to refining Orobianco’s menus while continuing to provide exceptional experiences for his diners. His vision for the restaurant is one of constant evolution, with each dish offering something new to delight both regular patrons and first-time visitors.
Conclusion
Under Andrea Drago’s leadership, Orobianco Ristorante has not only reclaimed its Michelin star but has also become a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an extraordinary dining adventure on the Costa Blanca. Whether enjoying the luxurious seven-course Orobianco Menu, the carefully curated 4 Moments Menu, or the seasonal delights of the Tasting Menu, diners are guaranteed an unforgettable experience crafted by one of Italy’s rising culinary stars.
Orobianco Ristorante di Calpe
Adress: Urb. Colina del Sol, 49-A, Calpe, Alicante, España
Phone: 96 680 66 61
Email: reservas@orobianco.es
