Ugo Chan
Madrid, Spain · Chamartín
Insider Compass
An expert assessment built on data, context and gastronomic judgement.
RECOGNITIONS
About Ugo Chan
Hugo Muñoz brings his deep training from Madrid's most respected kitchens—Kabuki Wellington, Viridiana, and Umo among them—to this Japanese-Spanish fusion concept in Chamartín that earned both a Michelin star and a Repsol Sol shortly after opening in 2021. The omakase menu unfolds at the open kitchen, where Muñoz and his brigade craft inventive plates that honor both culinary traditions without losing sight of pleasure or technique. It's for diners who appreciate creative fusion done with respect, not gimmicks—serious cooking that doesn't take itself too seriously.
Good to know
Sit at the counter facing the open kitchen if available—watching Muñoz and his team work the line adds immeasurably to the omakase experience.
The chef
Hugo Muñoz
Hugo Muñoz built his culinary foundation across Madrid's most demanding Japanese and contemporary Spanish kitchens, training at Carbón Negro, the Michelin-starred Kabuki Wellington, Viridiana, KaButoKaji, and Umo before launching Ugo Chan in 2021. His philosophy centers on respectful fusion—treating Spanish terroir and seasonal ingredients with Japanese precision and restraint rather than forcing cultural mash-ups for novelty's sake. Within months of opening, Muñoz earned both a Michelin star and a Repsol Sol, recognition that speaks to his technical rigor and clear culinary vision. His hands-on presence in the dining room and open kitchen reflects a chef who remains deeply connected to each plate that leaves his pass.
The Insider Compass
Four dimensions, each assessed independently against the same criteria everywhere we rate.
Plate
Muñoz's training across some of Madrid's most technically rigorous Japanese kitchens shows in the precision and balance of every dish, from the famed ensaladilla rusa reimagined with Japanese finesse to the gyoza that somehow captures Madrid in dumpling form. The omakase format allows the kitchen to showcase peak-season Spanish ingredients—pristine merluza, sweet red prawns—through Japanese technique and plating philosophy. Certain dishes hit harder than others; the kitchen's creative ambition occasionally outpaces execution on complex preparations.
Vibe
LivelyThe open kitchen creates natural energy and theater without forcing interaction, while the cocktail bar adds a more relaxed prelude or nightcap option. The dining room strikes a balance between special-occasion polish and genuine warmth—professional without being stuffy, designed without feeling overly precious. Expect a crowd that knows what they're here for: thoughtful fusion cooking backed by serious technique.
Service
The brigade's passion and professionalism come through immediately—Muñoz himself is often present, explaining dishes with genuine enthusiasm and engaging diners without hovering. The team moves with the smooth efficiency of a well-drilled kitchen, and the sommeliers demonstrate real depth of knowledge across the wine program. Pacing is generally spot-on, though busy services can occasionally stretch between courses.
Setting
The open kitchen anchors the space, offering front-row seats to the precision and choreography of the brigade at work. The interior leans modern and uncluttered, letting the food and interaction take center stage rather than competing with elaborate décor. Located in Chamartín on Calle de Félix Boix, it's a destination choice rather than a neighborhood stumble-upon—plan accordingly.
These four dimensions are a handful of the attributes we review. The Insider Rating also draws on research the compass does not display — among them the wine programme, the size and quality of the cellar, the location, and how long the house has operated. It is not an average of the scores above.
Go for
- Precision Japanese technique applied to Spanish ingredients
- Omakase dining with a chef who's genuinely engaged and present
- A Michelin-starred experience that feels warm rather than stiff
Don't go for
- Traditional Japanese purists seeking strictly authentic kaiseki
- Quick business meals or casual drop-ins without reservations
Details
C. de Félix Boix, 6, Chamartín, 28036 Madrid, Spain
€€€€