Top local chef Dani García's ups and downs

After many roller coaster rides, Dani closed Calima in 2014 and opened a new establishment in Marbella, Dani García Restaurante, which later achieved three Michelin stars before he decided to move away from fine dining. The same family has been his enduring partner for many years, on the unusual basis, allegedly, that he was a 51% shareholder.

More projects followed than there is space for on this page, covering at one time 20 locations, often using 'ghost' kitchens (offsite 'kitchenettes'). Madrid and New York featured heavily with varying degrees of success. A home delivery service crashed, and a key contractor terminated its services in 2023 with 6 million euros of unpaid debts. Other creditors followed suit, with the company declaring bankruptcy in 2024.

Current debts stand at over 12 million, with assets of 4 million euros. The court-appointed administrator has highlighted poor financial records and unprofitable operations. While Dani downplays his involvement in the financial side, the court will have to decide whether the bankruptcy was due to external circumstances or mismanagement, the latter probably resulting in civil penalties for the administrators.

WINE OF THE WEEK

• Clos Ancestral 2022

• The largest family-owned bodega in Spain, Torres, appears to get awards almost monthly for its contributions to sustainability and ambiental activities This organic red from Penedés is made with some grape varieties that have been saved from oblivion such as Moneu. An elegant wine at around 17 euros.