The Calp facility has regained a coveted Michelin distinction after a two-year lapse, celebrated under the leadership of chef Andrea Drago. Although Drago has held the Orobianco stove for only ten months, a remarkable tenure in this setting, Italian haute cuisine is once again making waves along the Levantine coast.
Alicante province adds two new Michelin stars
The 2024 Michelin Guide praised the resort for its elegant presentation and the way its dishes feel both timeless and contemporary. The menu, guided by the three-star Paolo Casagrande, marries Italian culinary roots with Spanish and Mediterranean influences. Rooted in traditional, comforting Italian techniques, the kitchen pushes forward with an innovative approach that blends two distinct traditions of fine dining.
“What we do is compelling because it blends Italian cuisine with Spanish techniques”, notes chef Andrea Drago. He has shared the kitchen with Paolo Casagrande, the mastermind behind Lasarte in Barcelona, for eight years. Now he leads the effort to reshape Orobianco, a venue that briefly lost its shine in 2019 but has since rebounded.
Drago expresses pride in the team that joined him, saying, “This achievement is a testament to the entire crew. The effort has been extraordinary, and Michelin’s recognition reflects that hard work.” Together, they offer a fresh interpretation of high-end Italian cooking. The 34-year-old chef believes the star will boost recognition and draw diners curious to try their creations.
Orobianco currently operates with eight tables, seating about 35 guests. The dining room serves lunch and dinner from Wednesday through Saturday, with Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays reserved for rest.
Alicante’s growing prestige on the map
With the revival of its Michelin sizzle, the province now shines with 17 stars, underscoring Alicante’s culinary depth. New energy from Drago adds to the momentum, as he remarks that combining sought-after Italian flavors with the region’s premium products yields results worthy of a Michelin star. The sentiment reflects a broader regional confidence in the quality of Alicante gastronomy.
Alicante maintains 15 Michelin stars and highlights Dacosta Madrid
Drago emphasizes that the province’s sustained success is not accidental: the sustained focus on excellent ingredients and skilled execution has earned consistent recognition. Though his time in Alicante was brief, the impressions from local kitchens and diners remain highly positive, and he anticipates visiting more venues soon to broaden his culinary exploration.
[Note: Information sourced from Michelin Guide reports and regional culinary sources to reflect the 2024 season and subsequent developments in Alicante’s dining scene. Attribution: Michelin Guide, regional gastronomic press.]