Soccer and haute cuisine don't always go hand in hand, but when they do, they create curious stories and flavors that are hard to forget. Josep María Kao, a Barcelona-born chef and a leading figure in Chinese gastronomy in the city, has had the opportunity to cook for major sports stars.
In a recent interview on El Suplement from Catalunya Ràdio, he shared some surprising anecdotes about his most illustrious diners. Among them, two names stand out above the rest: Leo Messi and Lamine Yamal.
Leo Messi's favorite Asian dish
The former Argentine footballer, considered by many the best footballer of all time, visited Shanghai, the Kao family's restaurant, on several occasions. The chef recalls the experience with special fondness.
"He liked them a lot, but he didn't eat large amounts, but he wanted to try many things from the menu," he commented regarding the dim sum. These are classic Chinese bites that are usually served at breakfast. This shows that Messi is also curious about different flavors.
Josep María Kao also spoke about Lamine Yamal's tastes
Meanwhile, Lamine Yamal, Barça's young prospect, has also sat at the restaurant's tables. Although he doesn't eat pork for religious reasons, there is one dish he loves: duck.
"He loves duck," the chef stated. He made it clear that the young man knows exactly what he likes and doesn't hesitate to have more when something convinces him. Kao has managed to adapt his cuisine without losing the essence that has turned his restaurant into a meeting point.
"Yes, yes, they have a good palate," he replied when asked about the footballers. This statement, with a touch of humor, contrasted with his comment about other public figures: "The ones who don't have it as much are the politicians."
The connection between Barça and the Kao family restaurant isn't new. For years, athletes, actors, and musicians have visited this place in search of authenticity and quality. But few dishes have left as much of a mark as the dim sum for Messi or the duck for Yamal.
Two different generations, united by soccer and by the same passion for gastronomy. Beyond the years that separate them, both Messi and Yamal have found in Josep María Kao's Chinese cuisine a flavor that leaves a mark.