Danny Lledó

In Dénia, a picturesque town on Spain’s Mediterranean coast, the sea meets the mountains, and every corner hums with the vibrant traditions of Valencian cuisine. It was here, amidst the saffron-scented air and the rhythms of Spanish life, that Danny Lledó’s culinary story began—not as his birthplace, but as the homeland of his father, Isaias, whose passion for cooking and love of Valencian culture became the foundation of Danny’s own journey.

Though born and raised in the United States (Tacoma Park, Maryland, 1977), Danny grew up deeply connected to his family’s roots in Dénia. His father, a professional chef, instilled in him a love for food and a reverence for tradition. Through his father’s stories, recipes, and dedication to authentic Spanish flavors, Danny absorbed the essence of Dénia’s rich culinary heritage. Even more, as a child, he spent two years back in Dénia, a period with an expiration date that culminated in a return to the United States but left an indelible mark on young Danny.

Danny’s culinary career began in the United States, where he trained in some of the country’s most respected kitchens, such as José Andrés’ Minibar in Washington, D.C. But no matter where he worked, he carried with him the lessons he’d learned from his father: the importance of fresh, high-quality ingredients, the care required to make a perfect dish, and the joy that comes from bringing people together through food. In 2019 Danny decided to open Slate Wine Bar, a relaxed concept where he paired Mediterranean-inspired dishes with an exceptional wine list that remained open until 2022. But the gastronomic ambition of the chef with Spanish roots still demanded one more step toward excellence.

Xiquet, A Culinary Love Letter to Valencia

In 2020, Danny took a major leap and opened Xiquet in Washington, D.C., a restaurant that serves as a love letter to the flavors and traditions of Valencia. The name “Xiquet,” which means “little one” in Valencian, reflects Danny’s deep connection to his father’s homeland and his desire to keep its culinary heritage alive. At Xiquet, the focus is on wood-fired cooking, seasonal ingredients, and dishes that stay true to the essence of Spanish cuisine while adding a touch of modern elegance.

The crown jewel of Xiquet is Danny’s paella, the dish that has become his signature. Prepared with bomba rice, the best saffron, and a rich, caramelized socarrat, Danny’s paella captures the heart of Valencia in every bite. But Xiquet’s menu goes far beyond paella, offering diners a carefully curated selection of dishes that showcase the depth and diversity of Spanish cooking.

The restaurant quickly gained national recognition, and in its first year, Xiquet was awarded a Michelin star—a rare and remarkable achievement for a Spanish restaurant in the United States. This milestone not only validated Danny’s talent and vision but also helped elevate the profile of Spanish cuisine in the American culinary landscape.

Danny’s influence extends beyond his restaurants. He is a passionate advocate for Spanish culture and cuisine, frequently participating in events, festivals, and cooking demonstrations to share the traditions of Valencia with a broader audience.

For Danny Lledó, cooking isn’t just about creating delicious food—it’s about honoring his roots and sharing the flavors of his father’s homeland with the world. Every dish he creates is a tribute to Dénia, to Isaias, and to the rich culinary traditions of Valencia. Through his work, Danny has proven that while his birthplace may be across the ocean, his heart—and his cooking—will always be tied to the shores of Spain.