Fine Dining Table: Sebastián and Mateo, thank you for having us. To start, how do you feel today after this journey with X.O.?
Sebastián and Mateo X.O: We feel grateful. These have been years of a lot of learning, both for our team and for the diners and the Colombian territory. X.O. was born with the idea of constantly learning, and today we continue to discover new ingredients, techniques and flavors that inspire us.
Fine Dining Table: When you created the concept of X.O., did you imagine the success and the projection you have today?
Sebastián and Mateo X.O: No, not at all. X.O. was born in the middle of the pandemic, in a very small space with only eight seats. We had faith in the project and we knew that we were going to give it all our energy, but we did not imagine that it would grow so much. Beyond individual achievements, what excites us most is being able to position Medellín and Colombia on the world gastronomic map.
Fine Dining Table: How did you meet and how did the idea of X.O. come about?
Sebastián and Mateo X.O: We have known each other for 15 years as interns at the Carmen restaurant. There we grew in different roles within the kitchen. Then, during the pandemic, we had to close several restaurants, but we always had the idea of doing something small, intimate, with a fine dining experience.
We started with clandestine dinners in houses and farms, and we realized that we loved the tasting menu format. We wanted to explore more ingredients, more times, and that’s how X.O. was born, on a hidden third floor with only three tables and a small kitchen. Then, in 2021, we moved to our current space and that’s where it all really began.
Fine Dining Table: Is there an iconic dish that has been on the menu from the beginning?
Sebastián and Mateo X.O: More than dishes, what has marked our path are the products we have discovered in Colombia. We are always looking for rare and surprising ingredients. Although there are dishes that have served as a base, what really defines X.O. is the constant exploration of new flavors and traditions.
Fine Dining Table: Does your menu seek to represent Antioquia or all of Colombia?
Sebastián and Mateo XO: Our menu covers all of Colombia. It is a reflection of our travels, the producers we have worked with, and the experiences we have lived in different regions.
Fine Dining Table: What do you think of the Colombian Pacific as a source of inspiration?
Sebastián and Mateo XO: It is an incredible place. We try to visit it at least twice a year. The quality of its fish, seafood, fruits, and its biodiversity is impressive. In addition, the seasoning and culinary traditions of the Pacific constantly inspire us. It is a region that many Colombians do not know in depth, but that has an immense gastronomic wealth.
Fine Dining Table: How do you see Colombia’s current position in world gastronomy?
Sebastián and Mateo X.O: Colombia is sweeping the board. It has been a difficult road, but well fought for. Today we see great restaurants, innovative concepts and a more united gastronomic community. There are consolidated references and also a new generation of young chefs who are doing things well, respecting the producer and creating alliances.
Fine Dining Table: What is missing for Colombia to be at the level of Peru or Argentina in gastronomy?
Sebastián and Mateo X.O: Time and more confidence in what we have. We need to believe more in our culture, in our roots and in the richness of our products. The good thing is that more and more people are joining this movement and that helps us to continue growing.
Fine Dining Table: What makes X.O. different from other restaurants?
Sebastián and Mateo X.O: Our focus on proximity to the diner. We go out to the tables ourselves, explain the dishes, interact with people. The kitchen is completely open, there are no secrets. We show our way of working with total honesty.
Also, everything we serve has a real story behind it. We don’t make up recipes or narratives. What we tell at the table is what we have experienced in our travels and explorations.
Fine Dining Table: To finish, what message would you like to give to Fine Dining Table readers around the world?
Sebastián and Mateo X.O: We invite you to get to know Medellín. It is a vibrant city, full of culture, art, music and, of course, a gastronomic scene that is growing strongly. We are here waiting for you with open arms to share our vision of Colombian cuisine.
Fine Dining Table: Thank you very much Sebastián and Mateo. It has been a pleasure talking to you.
Sebastián and Mateo XO: Thank you very much. We look forward to seeing you at X.O.!
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