We had the most incredible, heartwarming and inspiring dinner at OSA this weekend, making the trip to Madrid from Portugal with one goal only: to experience the magic that is happening at OSA.
Passing through the gate of a beautifully restored old Spanish villa we are greeted with a warm welcome and the offer of aperetifs in the candle lit courtyard - at once it felt as if we were arriving to a friends home for a special evening. Looking around us, the setting is the perfect blend of classic elegance and modern refinement with design led furniture and finishes. We sit with a view through an open window into the kitchen, a glimpse of what to come.
After drinks we are walked to our table past what we can now see is an (incredible!) kitchen and we are greeted by the chefs, Sara and Jorge. We are led to the dining room in the old conservatory, large tables with plenty of space and privacy. The feast begins.
Opening our menu's decorated with handpainted drawings we are lured into a truly exceptional tasting menu focusing on seasonal and local produce from the Iberian Peninsula. Every dish feels like a celebration of the land and sea —whether it's wild-caught seafood, farm-fresh vegetables, or house cured cuts of local Iberian meats. The dish make ups are seemingly simple and unfussy, yet the flavours are vibrant, almost nostalgic at times and thoughtfully paired. The chefs dedication to using the finest regional ingredients ensures a freshness and authenticity that elevates each bite and the cooking points are unlike any other restaurant we have ever eaten at, each ingredient cooked to utter, tender, melt in the mouth, al dente crunch, crisp perfection.
From subtle flavors to mains that explode with rich, earthy notes, OSA showcases the best of Iberia’s culinary heritage in creative and inventive ways. The menu evolves with the seasons, offering something new and exciting with each visit.
A must mention is the service and the incredible team at OSA that make it tick. Each member of the team is immediately kind and attentive, with the expert proffesionalism and consideration of any Michelin starred restaurant. They each guide us through each dish with care and passion, offering insights into the provenance of ingredients and the inspiration behind the dishes. Wine pairings by new recruit, Alex, were exceptional and we loved his energy, as well as the head waitress (forgive us as her name escapes us!). She is highly knowledgeable, willing to impart extra details and time to show us the smokers and the wine cellar after dinner. The team around them are incredibly discreet and well choreographed, it all felt like being part of a well rehearsed dance.
OSA is a destination for those who appreciate refined and technical, yet truly uncomplicated and grounded cuisine (imo the future of this type of dining) led by some of the world's finest ingredients found here in Spain in an intimate and beautifully crafted setting. It’s the kind of place that has left a long lasting impression on us and that we will remember, not only for its food but for its ability to make you feel like part of something truly special. It's a shame that 10 stars on Google do not exist, but surely Michelin will award more for this breath taking gem.
Bravo! Emma + David