Daniel García

Zortziko has been a landmark of Bilbao fine dining since 1989 — predating the Guggenheim-era transformation of the city. García came from outside the Basque Country and was adopted by Bilbao, earning his place in the city's culinary heritage. 'Zortziko' (8 in Basque, a 5/8 musical time signature) evokes the poetic musicality of Basque culture.

Daniel García Gómez, originally from Valdefuentes de Sangusín (Salamanca), has been the chef of Zortziko in Bilbao for decades, making him one of the pioneers of modern Basque fine dining. 'Zortziko' is a traditional Basque musical rhythm in 5/8 time — a name that reflects the cultural richness of his adopted city.

Salamanca, Spain / Bilbao, Basque Country — trained in classical Spanish and French cuisine; adopted Basque culinary identity

Career

• Chef at French and Spanish restaurants, Spain and France (1970s–1989)
• Chef-Owner at Zortziko, Bilbao, Basque Country (1989–present)

Mentored by French classical cuisine; Basque culinary tradition.