Mergers are always a great option, this time Mandarin Oriental’s Blanc restaurant joins forces with Alapar restaurant to create a gastronomic experience that combines the best of Mediterranean and Japanese culture
In the form of a gastronomic pop-up, the gastronomic proposal of the Alapar restaurant arrives at the iconic Blanc de Mandarin Oriental, located on Paseo de Gracia in Barcelona, from 11 April to 21 May. A project created by Jaume Marambio and Vicky Maccarone, inspired by Japanese izakayas -Japanese taverns-, to delight diners and offer an authentic combination of Mediterranean and Japanese culinary art.
Restaurant Blanc, Mandarin
At Alapar we work with first quality products and always respecting the timelessness of these, likewise the menu has been created for this gastronomic experience where Mediterranean products are used and seasoned with Japanese gastronomy by applying Asian cooking, pickling, marinating and cutting techniques, creating a creative way of perceiving both concepts of cuisine..
From Horse we interviewed the founding chefs of Alapar, Jaume Marambio and Vicky Maccarone.
- Horse: How did the pop-up gastronomic collaboration between Alapar and Mandarin Oriental’s Blanc restaurant come about?
They asked us to collaborate and we didn’t hesitate for a minute. Collaborating with a hotel like Mandarin Oriental Barcelona for us is a source of pride and also a recognition of a job well done. We are happy to be able to share this path hand in hand and we are enjoying the process very much.
- Horse: What outcome do you expect from this collaboration?
We aim to add value and, together with Mandarin Oriental, offer a unique gastronomic proposal in the city of Barcelona.
- Horse: Where does the Mediterranean izakaya format with a fusion of Japanese and Catalan techniques come from?
Jaume’s professional career has marked our relationship with Japanese food, and due to personal tastes and preferences it is a food that we love. We love its flavours, the precision of its techniques, the respect for the product… all of this enhanced with sauces, stocks and stews from our own house, we believe it is the perfect combination.
- Horse: Is the restaurant Alapar aiming for a Michelin star?
At Alapar we seek excellence, to offer the best possible service and product to our customers and to do so surrounded by a good team that feels comfortable working with us. If a star appears along the way, of course we will be very happy and welcome, but it is not our goal. We only aim to do things well and enjoy every step we take.
An exquisite union of Mediterranean and Japanese culinary art.
To get off to the best start, diners can choose from an assortment of montaditos such as the Sashimi Squid with Iberian baconor the Crispy wagyu themaki, avocado cream, with carefully combined flavours to convey the essence of Alapar in every bite. The most demanding palates will be able to enjoy unexpected combinations such as Peanut nigiri with teriyaki sauce or Toro, ponzu and ginger.
Menu selection Alapar a blanc
Inspired by Japanese gastronomy, dishes such as Gyozas with three sausages, broad beans and miso sauce with ginger, built with a surprising amalgam of flavours, or a special Yakishimo of red mullet and foie gras in its “suquet“, are a must. To round off this culinary experience, this proposal offers a delicate Chocolate grilled mochi, ideal to be accompanied by one of the green teas included in the menu.
Jaume Marambio and Vicky Maccarone, founders of Alapar. Blanc Restaurant, Mandarin Oriental
When it’s time to toast you can do so by enjoying a selection of sake, the authentic Japanese drink made from the fermentation of rice, so kanpai! The range of options allows you to enjoy anything from the elegant Masumi, which is recommended to be served hot and paired with heartier dishes, to the sweet Iinuma. Alapar’s selection of dishes can also be paired, alternatively, with a menu of Japanese beers.
This incredible gastronomic experience will be available for a limited time only. The menu will be available from Tuesday to Saturday lunchtime, between 13h and 15h, and from Thursday to Saturday diners will also be able to enjoy the special menu during dinner, from 20h to 22.30h..
Each exclusive service will have a maximum capacity of between 12 and 18 diners, with pre-booking.
Mandarin Oriental: Passeig de Gràcia, 38-40, 08007 Barcelona. Tel: 93 151 88 88
Images courtesy of: Mandarin Oriental
