Barcelona Wine Bar is a popular restaurant chain known for its Spanish-inspired cuisine and extensive wine selection. If you’ve ever dined at Barcelona Wine Bar or simply viewed their menu online, you may have wondered who the chef is behind these delicious dishes. In this article, we’ll explore the answer to that question.
Meet the Chef: Michael Schlow
The executive chef of Barcelona Wine Bar is none other than Michael Schlow – a renowned chef with numerous accolades under his belt. Born in New York City and raised in Connecticut, Schlow’s passion for cooking began at a young age. He attended the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York, and later honed his skills working under acclaimed chefs such as Thomas Keller and Charlie Trotter.
Schlow’s Culinary Background
Schlow’s culinary journey has taken him all over the world, from Italy to Japan and back to the United States. He has opened several successful restaurants throughout his career, including Via Matta in Boston and Tico in Washington D.C. In addition to his work with Barcelona Wine Bar, Schlow also serves as the culinary director for Alta Strada restaurants.
Schlow’s Approach to Cooking
Schlow’s cuisine is heavily influenced by his travels and experiences. He describes his cooking style as “modern American with an Italian accent.” His focus is on using fresh, high-quality ingredients to create flavorful dishes that showcase the natural flavors of each component.
Signature Dishes at Barcelona Wine Bar
Under Schlow’s leadership, Barcelona Wine Bar has become known for its authentic Spanish tapas dishes. Some of the most popular items on their menu include:
- Croquetas de Jamón: Crispy ham croquettes with béchamel sauce.
- Patatas Bravas: Crispy potatoes with spicy tomato sauce and aioli.
- Gambas al Ajillo: Garlic shrimp with olive oil and chili flakes.
- Pulpo a la Plancha: Grilled octopus with smoked paprika and fingerling potatoes.
Schlow’s Accolades
Schlow’s talent as a chef has not gone unnoticed in the culinary world. He has been awarded numerous accolades throughout his career, including:
- James Beard Award for Best Chef Northeast: Schlow received this prestigious award in 2000 for his work at the restaurant Radius in Boston.
- Boston Magazine’s Best Chef Award: Schlow has won this award multiple times throughout his career, most recently in 2019 for his work with Alta Strada restaurants.
In Conclusion
Michael Schlow is the mastermind behind the delicious Spanish-inspired cuisine at Barcelona Wine Bar. With his extensive culinary background and focus on using high-quality ingredients, it’s no wonder that this restaurant chain has become so popular among food lovers across the country. Whether you’re a fan of tapas or simply appreciate great food, Barcelona Wine Bar is definitely worth checking out.