Albert Adrià named second best chef in the world by The Best Chef Award

Catalan chef Albert Adrià is the second best chef in the world, according to The Best Chef Award 2024.

The cook of Barcelona's Enigma restaurant has held the number two spot for two consecutive years.

"An icon of culinary experimentation, Adrià continues to break boundaries at Enigma, where his work combines storytelling with innovative technique, solidifying his influence in the industry," the organization said.

The Catalan cook also won a Special Award, The Best (R) Evolution.

At a ceremony in Dubai on Wednesday night, the top spot was awarded to Danish chef Rasmus Munk of the Alchemist restaurant in Copenhagen.

Munk replaces Spanish chef Dabiz Muñoz, who won the prestigious award three years in a row.

Third place went to Danish chef Eric Vildgaard, head of Jordnaer restaurant in Gentofte, Denmark.

Paco Méndez of Barcelona's Come restaurant won the Best Creativity Award.

From El Bulli to Enigma

Albert Adrià has a long history in the kitchens. He began working as a chef inspired by his brother, renowned chef Ferran Adrià.

The Catalan left his studies to work at El Bulli, the iconic Costa Brava restaurant that remains one of the most iconic in history.

The Adrià brothers' innovative and experimental approach to traditional dishes and ingredients helped bring worldwide fame to Catalan cuisine.

Listen to the podcast below to learn more about Catalonia's rich and innovative food culture with chefs Carme Ruscalleda and Jordi Vilà and journalist Judith Càlix of Cuina magazine.