The cuisine of memories, elevated with mastery and Jaén roots

Juan Aceituno, born in Valdepeñas de Jaén (1986), trained at the IES El Valle in Jaén and enriched his technique in prestigious establishments such as Las Rejas (Cuenca, 1 Michelin Star) and Casa Marcial (Asturias, 3 Michelin Stars). After winning the "Future Chef" award in 2016 and managing the Oliva Garden restaurant (which received a Bib Gourmand distinction in 2017), he opened Dama Juana in the heart of Jaén in 2018. In less than eight months, he earned a coveted Michelin Star, putting the province on the national gastronomic map. The soul of his cuisine is a tribute to his grandmother Juana ("La Chucha"), from whom he inherited rustic recipes steeped in memory and authenticity. At Dama Juana, three tasting menus—Alacena, Blancal, and Umbría—tell the emotional landscape of his childhood, dish by dish. The exclusive Gran Menú María (available by reservation only, served by the chef in a private space, with wine pairings) is also part of this menu.

Aceituno's approach combines humble rural flavors—stews, cured meats, clarified stocks, olive oil, and produce from his garden—with a contemporary, elegant, and emotional presentation. The dining room is intimate and meticulously designed, with a minimalist atmosphere that highlights the cuisine of the region.

Presentation: Monday, November 10 at 12:00 p.m.
IN THE KEY OF STARS
Title: The Road to Michelin Stars