Move forward with elegance and passion

Lucía arrives at number 11 Bolívar Street once again, accompanied by her second-in-command, Pablo Jañez, in the new Honda HR-V. The journey, made comfortable and dynamic by Honda's intelligent hybrid technology—which delivers exceptional electrified performance and power—leads them to call the head waiter at Lur to discuss the day's events. This much-needed debriefing quickly turns into a fluid three-way conversation, made possible by the advanced connectivity of this model; driver assistance technology is a hallmark of Honda. "Only thanks to the organization can I anticipate potential problems and, therefore, have the appropriate solution," the chef reflects.

Because Lucía understands that without the perfect synergy of the six people who make up Lur, it wouldn't be possible to open the restaurant's doors every day. “We have a stable team, which is something that has taken a lot of effort to achieve. It's strong, united, and eager to improve and evolve. They support me, they share my passion, we help each other, and I know they'll be with me every step of the way,” Lucía states emphatically. This communication and coordination is also essential for Honda's engineers who, through trial and error, manage to create efficient cars that are constantly improving. This evolution is also reflected in the aesthetics, as evidenced by this Honda HR-V with its simple and elegant lines characteristic of the coupé style, resulting in an attractive and modern model.

Because perseverance is key to perfecting technique and never ceasing to advance, whether in the automotive world or the culinary world. A fundamental attribute to which Lucía adds passion, effort, creativity, patience, and humility. That's why she considers training an essential part of her life, which she has been able to develop alongside her family, during her two-year stay in Zuberoa with Hilario Arbelaitz—an experience that profoundly impacted her—through self-study thanks to her deep curiosity, and by attending all kinds of courses. She then translates that knowledge into the eight dishes that make up the menu, where meticulous work, as well as mastery of ingredients, technique, and stocks, are evident.

These are creations where aesthetics and presentation are of paramount importance, as is the design of the space itself, since all of these elements play a crucial role in enhancing the experience: “With the renovation we undertook, we aimed to create a space where people feel comfortable and relaxed; hence, we only have five tables. Lur's space is tranquil, open, welcoming, and warm. I believe it's important that places like this exist in Madrid.” Similarly, in the Honda HR-V, design prioritizes comfort, making the car as special inside as it is outside: multi-configurable seats thanks to the Honda Magic Seats system, a large trunk capacity, a heated steering wheel, and a redesigned front grille for a sportier and more dynamic style.

Why did you choose cooking as a profession?

It's a very creative and passionate profession that has always naturally appealed to me. I'm the fourth generation of chefs in my family; the tradition began with my great-grandmother, Cándida. I learned to cook and navigate the hospitality industry in my father's restaurant. Since then, I've always been learning, not only from my family but also at the Casa de Campo Hospitality School and through self-study driven by curiosity. I also spent two years in Zuberoa, an experience that left a lasting impression on me.

What do you think are the essential and necessary attributes to be able to make a career in this sector?

Passion, perseverance, humility, effort, creativity, and patience.

How many people are on the team and what role does each person play? How important are they to you and how do you achieve good communication?

What are the most challenging moments that can arise in your daily life and how do you deal with them?

For me, organization is very important, and only through it can you anticipate potential problems and find the appropriate solutions. Although last-minute issues like unexpected allergies always arise, in those cases we try to keep a cool head to find a solution and provide the best possible service.

You did a complete renovation of the space before opening Lur, right? How would you describe the current space and what did you want to achieve with that design?

Yes, everything has developed organically, and all the improvements we've made have happened when we could and felt it was the right time. We wanted to create a space where people felt comfortable, like at home, where they could relax. I think it's important to create places like this in Madrid. That's also why we only have five tables. I think it's a peaceful, open, welcoming space with soft lighting. The wood adds warmth, and the green of the olive trees brings a wild feel.

You are very young and have a long way to go, where would you like to go?

We always want to implement improvements, and I gradually set achievable goals for the team. We change the menu (of eight courses) every two months, and that's more of a creative challenge than an effort. Plus, it allows customers to return frequently, knowing they'll try something different. It's a commitment for us, but also for our customers.

You've had the opportunity to travel as a passenger in a Honda HR-V, what has impressed you most about this model?

I found the touchless trunk opening very interesting and eye-catching; we're always carrying a lot of stuff, and it's so convenient to be able to open it that way. The car in general is fantastic. It has a very sleek and elegant design and beautiful finishes.