Omar Allibhoy

A chef with a mission: to bring the bold, vibrant flavors of Spain to tables across the UK. Omar Allibhoy (Madrid, 1984) exudes charisma and charm and has transformed the perception of Spanish food in Britain, turning tapas into a household name. With his restaurants, cookbooks, and a thriving online presence, Omar’s journey is a masterclass in blending passion with authenticity.

Born and raised in Madrid, Omar’s love for cooking was ignited in his family kitchen, where food was the centerpiece of life. Inspired by Spanish culinary legends like Ferran Adrià, Omar trained professionally and later joined the ranks at Adrià’s project Nhube of NH Hotels. This formative experience taught him to respect tradition while embracing creativity, a balance that defines his cooking to this day.

When Omar moved to London at the age of 21, he brought with him the flavors of Spain. After working under Gordon Ramsay -who called Allibhoy “the Antonio Banderas of cooking”- at Maze and gaining acclaim as head chef at El Pirata de Tapas in Notting Hill, Omar decided it was time to take Spanish cuisine into his own hands.

A Yummy Revolution

In 2010, Omar launched Tapas Revolution, his first restaurant, in Westfield, Shepherd’s Bush. Designed as a relaxed, open-plan dining space, the restaurant was a celebration of Spain’s vibrant tapas culture. From tortilla de patatas to jamón ibérico, Omar introduced British diners to the authentic flavors of Spain.

The concept was an instant success, and Tapas Revolution grew into a nationwide chain, now one of the most recognized names in Spanish dining in the UK. Omar’s vision of creating more than just a restaurant—an experience that brought people together over shared plates—resonated deeply with his audience.

Omar’s influence extends far beyond restaurants. His first cookbook, Tapas Revolution, became an international phenomenon, selling over 80,000 copies and earning the title of the world’s best-selling Spanish cookbook. This success was followed by Spanish Made Simple, a collection of easy, flavorful recipes designed to fit busy lifestyles while staying true to Spanish culinary traditions. The third, Paella, is a passionate tribute to the different incarnations of the most popular among Spanish dishes.

But Omar -also known as The Spanish Chef, his personal brand- didn’t stop at books. His YouTube channel has become a go-to resource for Spanish cooking enthusiasts, amassing millions of views. His video How to Make Spanish Paella alone garnered nearly six million views, proving that his recipes resonate with people all over the world. Through his engaging and approachable style, Omar has made Spanish cuisine accessible to anyone with a love for good food.

Omar is more than just a chef; he’s a passionate ambassador for Spanish culture. He’s dedicated to showcasing the best of Spanish produce, from olive oils and wines to cheeses and charcuterie. Whether it’s through his restaurants, cookbooks, or TV appearances on shows like Saturday Kitchen and MasterChef UK, Omar consistently emphasizes authenticity and quality.

Whether you’re tucking into a plate of patatas bravas at Tapas Revolution, recreating his paella from YouTube, or flipping through one of his best-selling cookbooks, Omar’s passion for Spanish cuisine shines through.