Sergio Solís Crowned Spain’s Best Sushi Chef
Sergio Solís, a chef at Ta-Kumi Japanese restaurant in Marbella, is still basking in the glory of being named Spain’s best sushi chef. The decision was made by judges at the final of the third annual Itame Balfegó, a sushi competition for professionals in Spain. Solís expressed his joy and surprise at the recognition of his work.
Winning with Tuna and Skill
To secure his victory, Solís had to showcase his talent in several tests involving a piece of tuna loin and ventresca tuna belly. His trilogy of sashimi, nigiris, and three makis were enough to impress the jury. Solís admitted that he took a risk without much thought, but it paid off in the end.
Prizes and Recognition
In addition to the prestigious title, Solís also won 3,000 euros in cash, a trip for two to Japan, and a set of Japanese knives. His journey to the Japanese kitchen was not planned, but rather a happy accident.
From Sierra Blanca to Ta-Kumi
At just 26 years old, Solís has been with Ta-Kumi Marbella since 2017. His love for eating and cooking led him to study the hotel and catering module in Sierra Blanca. From there, he ventured into the job market at Trocadero, where he began to explore Japanese cuisine. His passion for the cuisine led him to Ta-Kumi, where he has been learning and growing ever since.
Learning from the Best
Solís credits his growth to his mentors Toshio Tsutsui and Emi Noda, who teach him every day. He describes Japanese cuisine as dynamic and constantly evolving, providing endless learning opportunities.
Ta-Kumi Marbella: A Home Away from Home
Solís describes Ta-Kumi Marbella, one of the two restaurants run by Toshio Tsutsui and Álvaro Arbeloa in Malaga province, as his second home. Both restaurants are recognized by the Repsol Guide and Michelin Guide. They also have a third restaurant in Madrid, which is included in Michelin’s recommendations.
Next Stop: European Competition
With this award, Solís is now eligible to represent Spain in the European competition. The jury, made up of renowned chefs, chose Solís for his excellence in sushi preparation and presentation, innovative techniques, and mastery of Japanese culinary art.
Other Winners and Finalists
Second and third place in the competition went to Brendan Ferrero Cassidy of Os-Kuro restaurant in Barcelona, and Bastian Fuentes of Saisho restaurant in Madrid. The winners were announced at a ceremony in Barcelona, attended by over 700 people, including chefs, journalists, and hospitality professionals.
History of the Itamae Balfegó Awards
This is the third year of the Itamae Balfegó awards. The previous winners were Masayuki Narumi from Daikichi Beach restaurant in Alicante in 2023, and Steven Bosen Wu Zheng from the Imperial restaurant in Pamplona in 2022.
