Finca Cortesín is not only known for its spectacular views and impeccable service but also for the culinary offerings led by Lutz Bösing, a chef who has made authenticity his hallmark. For more than 14 years, Lutz has been at the helm of the resort’s restaurants, such as El Jardín de Lutz, Don Giovanni, and REI, offering a culinary experience that combines the region’s traditions with a high degree of creativity and profound respect for local produce.
A chef forged between cultures
Lutz Bösing’s story is a journey between two worlds: his native Germany on one side and sunny Spain on the other, which welcomed him in 1989. With a desire to explore Mediterranean flavors, he arrived in the country seeking to master the techniques of traditional Spanish cuisine. His passion for stews and timeless recipes, such as potato omelet and gazpacho, led him to delve into a recipe book that he considers “complicated to perfect” due to the high expectations evoked by family memories.
After working in various regions of Spain, including Granada and Catalonia, Lutz was hired by Finca Cortesín in 2008. Since then, he has consolidated his reputation as a leading figure in classic cuisine in a luxurious setting.
A defined gastronomic philosophy: Tradition, product, and purity
Lutz Bösing champions a cuisine based on fundamentals: fresh ingredients, refined techniques, and respect for genuine flavors. In his opinion, “a well-made sofrito or a dark broth surpasses any ephemeral dish designed for social media.” His weakness for butter, inherited from his German roots, coexists with his preference for virgin olive oil and fresh herbs, such as parsley and basil, which imbue his creations with authenticity.
At El Jardín de Lutz, signature dishes such as steak tartare and lobster cocktails stand out, alongside more innovative offerings like garden whitebait, an elevated interpretation of the region’s typical fried vegetables, enhanced with truffle and free-range egg. For the chef, inspiration can strike at any moment, even from the most everyday details.
Between luxury and tradition
Each dish Lutz creates tells a story, uniting his German roots with the culinary richness of Andalusia. From the zucchini carpaccio, which combines freshness and simplicity, to the potatoes with garlic shrimp and fried egg, a dish that was born from an informal dinner and today symbolizes how the humble can become an art.
Desserts, such as custard, hold a special place in his heart. “The first time I tried them, they surprised me with their simplicity and perfection,” he recalls. Furthermore, Lutz pays special attention to frying, one of the most representative techniques of Andalusian cuisine, ensuring that every bite is a tribute to local traditions.
Finca Cortesín: The perfect setting for forging a culinary legacy
Recognized as one of the best hotels in the world, Finca Cortesín offers a setting where gastronomy and luxury blend seamlessly. The resort features a variety of themed restaurants, from REI’s Japanese cuisine to Don Giovanni’s Italian. However, the culinary soul of the resort lies at El Jardín de Lutz, where the chef offers dishes that celebrate the essence of the region. “We are a luxury hotel with a cuisine that speaks to this region,” he affirms.
The pursuit of excellence is also reflected in the attention to detail in every preparation. Lutz emphasizes the importance of preparing the most ingredients in the resort’s kitchens, ensuring the quality and freshness that international guests expect.
Lutz’s legacy: Preserving to innovate
For Lutz, the future of gastronomy lies in preserving traditional techniques and recipes. His commitment to educating new generations is evident in the time he dedicates to teaching his team. He believes that losing grandmothers’ recipes means losing an essential part of our cultural identity.
When he’s not in the kitchen, Lutz enjoys quiet time with his wife from Córdoba and simple meals at home. His mission is not only to delight the palates of those who visit Finca Cortesín but also to ensure that culinary traditions remain alive for future generations.
