Acclaimed chef Ot Salvans, with a background in Michelin-starred restaurants, has successfully launched Manda Huevos in Barcelona's Les Corts district. He is now preparing to open a second establishment, Casa Platos, in Gràcia.
Manda Huevos opened last summer at Avinguda de Les Corts, 277. Salvans and his business partner, Víctor Martínez, focused on popular Catalan dishes and high-quality potato omelettes. This approach resonated with local residents.
“I wanted to make something for all types of customers,” Salvans stated. “Popular food made with care and with the best market product.” The restaurant also offers a carefully selected wine list.
Culinary Pedigree and Philosophy
Salvans, born in Barcelona in 2000, possesses an impressive culinary background. He trained at renowned establishments including Alkimia, Al Marge in Badalona, El Celler de Can Roca, StreetXo, DiverXo, and Disfrutar. His extensive experience prepared him for this venture.
Barcelona's dining scene often sees trends shift from traditional dishes to international fare. However, Manda Huevos embraces classic Catalan cuisine. The partners understood the challenges of opening a new business, including rising rents and product costs. They opted for a concept that would appeal broadly.
Local residents in Les Corts, a district home to over 80,000 people, have embraced Manda Huevos. Many customers return multiple times each week, highlighting the restaurant's immediate success and popularity within the community.
Signature Dishes and Techniques
The menu at Manda Huevos features both classic and innovative potato omelettes. Salvans sources his eggs from Cobardes y Gallinas, ensuring a high-quality base for his signature dish. He employs a specific technique to achieve the perfect texture.
This method involves adding an extra yolk per egg and emulsifying hot Monalisa potatoes. He also uses pre-tempered beaten eggs. This creates a homogeneous mixture, quickly cooked to 70ºC for a juicy, non-liquid texture. The result is a potato omelette that has garnered significant praise.
Beyond omelettes, the restaurant offers a range of popular and refined dishes. These include a rich Russian salad with smoked eel and pickles. The macaroni “del net” features aged beef rump, Iberian sausage, spicy chorizo from León, three cheeses, and chicken roasting juice. Rafa Baus efficiently attends to customers.
Additional offerings include chicken with crayfish a la catalana, served with its parfait. Cold tuna with garlic sauce, sour potato, and fried egg also feature on the menu. Impeccable lamb sweetbreads complete the selection. The restaurant also provides a daily menu at €28.50.
Future Plans: Casa Platos in Gràcia
The partners are now focused on their upcoming project, Casa Platos. This new establishment, described as a “hi-fi bar,” will open shortly in Barcelona's Gràcia district. Gràcia is a vibrant area known for its independent shops, cultural scene, and strong community feel.
They have already finalised the food and drink menu for Casa Platos. This expansion demonstrates their commitment to offering high-quality, affordable cuisine across different parts of Barcelona. The venture aims to replicate the success seen at Manda Huevos.
The opening of Casa Platos will provide more residents and visitors with access to Salvans’ popular and carefully prepared dishes. This strategic expansion reinforces the partners' vision for accessible, well-executed Catalan gastronomy in the city.
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Originally published by La Vanguardia Barcelona. Read original article.
