In a viral TikTok video series, travel influencer Chloe Jade Meltzer has harshly criticized Mugaritz, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Spain’s Basque Country, describing it as the “worst meal” of her life after spending nearly $1,000.
Meltzer’s videos, which have garnered over 8 million views, depict her negative experience at Mugaritz, a two Michelin-starred establishment renowned for its culinary creativity under chef Andoni Luis Aduriz. Meltzer described the food as “revolting” and compared some dishes to “eating lip gloss.”
“I truly cannot believe how bad this restaurant was,” Meltzer expressed in one of her posts. She highlighted several dishes she found particularly offensive, including “charred spinach with BBQ sauce” and “fermented potato skin,” which she likened to a “makeup wipe.”
Meltzer’s dining experience, which lasted approximately three hours and included 23-25 creations, ended with a bill totaling 897 Euros (around $975). She shared that one fellow diner was so dissatisfied that he refused to pay until the police were called.
Meltzer’s criticism has sparked widespread debate about Mugaritz’s unique approach to cuisine, which aims to evoke “stories, gestures, and emotions” through innovative flavors and textures. Despite the restaurant’s disclaimer that diners might not “like all of the dishes,” Meltzer felt that the food was “utterly disgusting.”
The influencer’s review has triggered a mixed response from the public, with some praising her honesty and others defending the acclaimed restaurant’s avant-garde style.
