A Cuenca Chef Earned a Michelin Star in Spain
Cuenca Expat Staff
A Cuenca-born chef has reached one of the biggest stages in Spanish gastronomy.
Primicias reports that Claudia Merchan, who left Cuenca for Spain nine years ago, earned a Michelin star at Simpar, the restaurant she opened with her partner Axel Smyth in the historic center of Santiago de Compostela.
The restaurant was one of the highlighted additions to the guide in 2025.
From Cuenca To Spain
Primicias reports Merchan originally went to Spain to specialize in pastry.
She studied at the Basque Culinary Center in San Sebastian, where she met Smyth.
Before opening Simpar, she worked in respected kitchens including Can Jubany in Catalonia and Ricard Camarena in Valencia.
She also worked for more than two years in Toledo and later in Santiago.
Simpar
Merchan and Smyth opened Simpar in Santiago de Compostela.
Primicias reports that in less than three years, the small restaurant achieved a Michelin star.
The couple previously worked together at Casa Elena in Toledo, where they obtained a Sol Repsol.
Why This Matters Locally
This is a community story, but it is also a reminder of how far Cuenca talent travels.
Merchan studied gastronomy in Cuenca, built a career abroad, and now has her name attached to one of the most recognized restaurant guides in the world.
Source: Primicias
