A José Andrés Culinary Experience

Inspired by my history in public television, when I first learned about and became awed by Spanish Chef José Andrés and his series Made In Spain. When I scheduled my trip to Las Vegas, I sought out to have this particular culinary experience; and it did not disappoint.

Upon arrival, we were handed a golden ticket at host check-in then escorted to a reserved area with other guests looking forward to this exclusive avant-garde culinary experience at the elusive é by José Andrés.

The sommelier approached to take our pre-dinner cocktail orders and offered wine options that would accompany each forthcoming bite. Among the options was a wine pairing from a list of specifically Spanish wines, or pairing from a select wine list curated by Chef Andrés himself.

Soon, a server appeared with two platters resembling logs filled with stones. Sticking out of the stones were crackers shaped like black branches each containing colorful flowers. The server explained the branches were made of olives and salt, with edible flowers. A perfect beginning to the amazing experience that would take place once inside the actual restaurant.

After the guests got to know each other, we were escorted through Andrés’s popular tapas eatery Jaleo. We followed the server around the corner from the large metallic bar, and behind a red curtain into a tiny room which stood a brass-topped bar with only seven to nine seats. A team of seven came in from the side entrance and welcomed us to a world of avant-garde culinary wonders.

The é team was friendly and personable, chatting with us as they meticulously assembled each creative bite with care, sometimes requiring tweezers. Ingredients varied from fresh shaved truffle and assorted Spanish cheeses to crab soup served in a crab shell and a savory cotton candy empanada filled with foie gras.

I won’t give all the details for this fantastic dinner, but will note that menu varies depending on availability and season. Below are photos of some of the delicious bites we got to experience.