Barragán Mohacho is a Spanish chef renowned for her mastery of Spanish cuisine and her ability to bring authentic flavours to the UK’s fine dining scene. Born and raised in Bilbao, in the Basque Country, Barragán developed a deep appreciation for Spanish ingredients and cooking techniques from an early age. Her mother played a significant role in shaping her culinary passion, as she was involved in preparing meals from the time she was a child.

Barragán moved to London in 1998, initially working at Simply Nico, where she was exposed to a diverse range of ingredients and cooking styles. She later joined Fino as a sous chef before becoming Head Chef. Her talent and leadership led her to oversee the launch of Barrafina, a tapas-focused restaurant that quickly gained a reputation for its exceptional Spanish cuisine. Under her guidance, Barrafina expanded to multiple locations, and in 2014, the original Dean Street restaurant was awarded a Michelin star, making it one of the most celebrated Spanish restaurants in London.

In 2017, Barragán decided to embark on her own venture, launching Sabor, a restaurant dedicated to showcasing the breadth of Spanish cuisine beyond tapas. Located on Heddon Street in London, Sabor features three distinct dining areas: The Counter, which focuses on traditional tapas; El Asador, which highlights Basque-style wood-fired cooking; and La Mesa, an intimate chef’s table experience. Within a year of opening, Sabor earned a Michelin star, further cementing Barragán’s status as a leading figure in Spanish gastronomy.

Barragán’s approach to cooking is rooted in authenticity, simplicity, and a deep respect for Spanish culinary traditions. She has written cookbooks based on the menus at both Barrafina and Sabor, sharing her expertise with a wider audience. Her influence extends beyond the kitchen, as she has been recognized as one of the 500 most influential people in the UK by Debrett’s in 2017.

Throughout her career, Barragán has remained committed to celebrating Spanish cuisine in its purest form, ensuring that diners experience the rich diversity of flavors and techniques that define her homeland’s culinary heritage. Her dedication to excellence and her ability to create immersive dining experiences have made her one of the most respected chefs in the UK today.