The Txoko Experience : A Basque Documentary

foto courtesy of Yuri

There's a new documentary in town that tells the story of Basque cuisine and the famous concept of the Basque dining society, or txoko. I was asked to be a part of the documentary, and within its 50-minute time frame, I periodically offer my two cents on why Basque food is so special, and what its essence consists of.  The Txoko Experience can be screened from January 1st to April 30th on all international Iberia flights.   So, boom! If you're on there and watch it, shoot me a photo :)

The film is truly beautiful...a must-see for Basque-ophiles. It features the voices of a selection of renowned Michelin Star Basque chefs: Elena Arzak (Restaurante Arzak), Victor Arguinzoniz (Asador Etxebarri), Josean Alija (Nerua Guggenheim Bilbao), and Aitor Arregi (Restaurante Elkano), in their own restaurant kitchens, who become narrators of the film. In addition, the film highlights regional products such as Rioja wine and Idiazabal cheese, among others. By emphasizing the products and the chefs who work with them, the film underlines the value, essence, and environment in which delicious, innovative meals are designed.

I untangle the roots and branches of Basque food alongside other more illustrious voices, like Mikel Iturriaga (Food journalist at El País, the most widely circulated newspaper in Spain) and my friend Kevin Patricio.

Yuri Morejon and Marcela Garces did a great job on this film, which arrives at a timely moment, anticipating the 2018 edition of The World’s 50 Best Restaurants gala, which will take place in Bilbao, making the Basque Country the epicenter of world gastronomy.

The premiere in San Sebastián Gastronomika, a few months back, was a star-studded event.  Hence, this ridiculously cute photo of Buckley with Elena Arzak, one of the world's top female chefs (and Basque woman extraordinaire).

While the documentary still isn't available to stream online, you can see a trailer here (or book a flight to Spain and watch us aboard).