Nacho Manzano

Asturias, a region in northern Spain, is synonymous with breathtaking landscapes and a deep-rooted culinary tradition. Among its many treasures is the acclaimed chef Nacho Manzano, whose innovative work at Casa Marcial has placed him at the pinnacle of global gastronomy. Nestled in the lush foothills of the Picos de Europa mountains near the town of Arriondas, Casa Marcial combines modern culinary artistry with the essence of Asturian heritage, earning its prestigious third Michelin star in the 2025 edition of the Michelin Guide.

Manzano’s journey began in 1971 in La Salgar, Asturias, where his passion for cooking was nurtured by his family. Casa Marcial itself has humble beginnings: a small village store run by his great-grandparents and later transformed into a restaurant by his parents, Marcial and his wife. The establishment initially served simple, hearty dishes emblematic of Asturian cuisine. Young Nacho, inspired by his mother’s cooking, created his first dish at just 13—corn cakes with stewed onions and Cabrales cheese—a recipe that remains a signature item on the Casa Marcial menu.

After honing his skills at the revered Asturian restaurant Casa Víctor, Manzano took the helm at Casa Marcial in 1993. He gradually reinvented the menu, blending traditional flavors with avant-garde techniques. The restaurant became a pilgrimage site for those seeking both the authenticity of Asturian cuisine and a fresh, modern approach. Iconic creations like his reinterpretation of fabada—a traditional bean stew—showcase his philosophy. By incorporating lighter techniques and innovative pairings, such as crisp bacon with fabada vinaigrette and raw vegetables, he has reimagined regional classics without losing their soul.

Manzano’s culinary repertoire spans an array of dishes rooted in Asturias’ rich natural bounty: free-range chicken (pitu de caleya), rice with limpets, and seasonal seafood such as sardines and bonito belly. His mastery lies in elevating these ingredients while staying true to their origins.

A Family Endeavor

Casa Marcial’s third Michelin star is not just a personal achievement for Nacho Manzano; it represents a triumph for the entire family. Working alongside him is his sister, Esther Manzano, a groundbreaking chef in her own right who became the first Asturian woman to earn a Michelin star for her work at the now-closed La Salgar in Gijón. Their two other sisters, Sandra and Olga, also play vital roles in the family enterprise, serving as Casa Marcial’s maître d’ and administrative manager, respectively. Esther’s son, Chus, has joined the family tradition, ensuring its legacy continues.

Beyond Casa Marcial, the family has expanded their culinary footprint with ventures like Gloria, a casual dining concept with locations in Gijón and Barcelona; NM in Oviedo, a Michelin-starred restaurant; and the boutique gastronomic hotel Narbasu.

Taking Asturian Cuisine Global

Manzano’s influence extends far beyond Asturias. In 2009, he launched a consultancy for the acclaimed Ibérica Restaurants in London, a group of gourmet Spanish eateries and tapas bars. This venture serves as a cultural ambassador, offering a curated menu designed by Manzano that introduces international diners to the richness of Spanish cuisine. The restaurants also feature Spanish products for purchase, exhibition spaces, and event venues, further solidifying their role as hubs of Spanish gastronomy abroad. In 2025 Nacho Manzano announced the end of this longtime collaboration with Ibérica Restaurants, explaining that he has fulfilled the initial goal: “My mission was to ensure the food was delicious, and I succeeded.”, he said.

With three Michelin stars, a Green Star for sustainability, and a growing network of culinary projects, Nacho Manzano remains an unparalleled ambassador for Asturias. His work combines innovation, tradition, and an unwavering commitment to quality, making him a standout figure in the global culinary landscape.