When you say Adria in Spain, everyone’s heads turn.
It’s a household name, people know who Ferran and Albert Adria are. In the cooking world, “Adria” refers to: prestige gastronomy, culinary stature, the study of art, science and refined cooking.
PHOTO WENDY HUNG
Posters of the brothers are plastered all over Barcelona, their famed restaurant: elBulli, presently closed but set to reopen in 2014, remains to be a mecca for foodies worldwide. Movies are made about the brothers, who are treated as god-like entities in Spain. When I met Albert, however, he was sweet and humble. His modesty naturally captivates respect and inspiration, just like the 24 dishes that I was lucky enough to taste the night before our interview.
I wondered what it felt like to grow up with a superstar like Ferran. If, at all, he felt dimmed in the shadow of an older brother that strangers and fans refer to by his first name. Throughout our conversation, it was evident that Albert is a star of his own, who simply chooses to do less media interviews and focuses on refining his craft. I felt further grateful, that he decided to sit down with me for a chat.
Similar to most chefs I’ve interviewed, especially in Europe, I felt a huge sense of generosity. Albert provided a tour and was so candid in our conversation. He focused on his team and the community of Catalan (and Spanish) chefs who created the movement of haut cuisine and modern fine-dining experiences. In my interviews with other chefs, everyone spoke about the brothers with the highest regard and theme of community efforts carried above all others.
It’s no wonder the Adrias are respected within the industry, they changed the wave of science and cooking, paved the careers for a number of chefs in their country. Yet, Albert remains courteous and humble. When he autographed a menu for me and said, “Wendy, just like in Peter Pan!” Then wrote, “with lovely affection.” To this day, I still can’t believe I interviewed Albert Adria, but it’s always the most famous who are the most modest, and a true joy to spend with on a lovely afternoon in Barcelona.
Delish travels,
