Elena Arzak is the 4th generation to lead the kitchen at Restaurante Arzak in San Sebastián, Spain. Rooted in the principles of The New Basque Cuisine Movement, championed by her father, Chef Juan Mari Arzak, Elena has embraced a collaborative approach to creativity. This fuels the ongoing innovation behind Arzak’s research-driven, contemporary Basque cuisine. 

Elena honed her culinary skills at Hotel and Restaurant Management school in Luzern, Switzerland, and through experience at esteemed European restaurants, including La Maison Troisgros, Pierre Gagnaire, Louis XV, and El Bulli. Returning to her family’s restaurant in the 1990s, she worked through all the kitchen stations, crafting original dishes alongside her father, who consistently inspired and challenged her. 

Currently, Elena co-leads Arzak with Juan Mari, combining their shared history, expertise, and passion to define the spirit of their globally acclaimed restaurant.