Victor Arguinzoniz is a Basque chef and master of wood-fire cooking, known for Asador Etxebarri, where he elevates grilling into an art form emphasizing simplicity and natural flavors.
Chef Victor Arguinzoniz is a master of wood-fire cooking and the visionary behind Asador Etxebarri in the Basque village of Axpe. Born and raised in this rural region, he developed a deep respect for nature and traditional cooking methods from an early age. Self-taught, he opened Etxebarri at 30 and spent decades refining his approach to grilling, elevating it to an art form.
His innovative techniques allow him to enhance the pure essence of each ingredient using custom-built grills and carefully selected wood for different flavors. Every dish, from delicate seafood to aged beef, carries a subtle yet distinct taste of fire. Victor’s philosophy centers on simplicity, quality, and respect for ingredients. He sources the finest seasonal products, treating them with precision to highlight their natural flavors rather than masking them.
Despite his global recognition, he remains deeply connected to his roots, preferring the quiet rhythm of his kitchen over the spotlight. At Etxebarri, his approach to grilling redefines traditional barbecue, offering a unique, ingredient-driven dining experience that showcases the harmony between fire, smoke, and nature.