Fine Dining Table: Sebastián and Mateo, thank you for having us. To start, how are you feeling today after this journey with X.O.?
Sebastián and Mateo X.O: We are grateful. These have been years of great learning—for our team, our guests, and Colombia as a whole. X.O. was founded on the principle of continuous learning, and today we continue to discover new ingredients, techniques, and flavors that inspire us.
Fine Dining Table: When you came up with the concept for X.O., did you imagine the success and visibility you have today?
Sebastián and Mateo X.O: No, not at all. X.O. was founded in the middle of the pandemic, in a very small space with only eight seats. We had faith in the project and knew we were going to pour all our energy into it, but we never imagined it would grow so much. Beyond individual achievements, what excites us most is being able to position Medellín and Colombia on the world's culinary map.
Fine Dining Table: How did you meet, and how did the idea for X.O. come about?
Sebastián and Mateo X.O: We've known each other for 15 years, having worked together as interns at the Carmen restaurant. There, we took on various roles in the kitchen. Then, during the pandemic, we had to close several restaurants, but we always had the idea of creating something small and intimate that offered a fine-dining experience.
We started with clandestine dinners in homes and on farms, and we realized that we loved the tasting menu format. We wanted to explore more ingredients and different times of day, and that’s how X.O. was born—on a hidden third floor with just three tables and a small kitchen. Then, in 2021, we moved to our current location, and that’s where it all really began.
Fine Dining Table: Is there an iconic dish that has been on the menu since the beginning?
Sebastián and Mateo X.O: More than just dishes, what has shaped our journey are the products we have discovered in Colombia. We are always on the lookout for rare and surprising ingredients. Although certain dishes have served as a foundation, what truly defines X.O. is our constant exploration of new flavors and traditions.
Fine Dining Table: Does your menu aim to represent Antioquia or all of Colombia?
Sebastián and Mateo XO: Our menu features dishes from all over Colombia. It reflects our travels, the producers we've worked with, and the experiences we've had in different regions.
Fine Dining Table: What do you think of the Colombian Pacific as a source of inspiration?
Sebastián and Mateo XO: It's an incredible place. We try to visit it at least twice a year. The quality of its fish, seafood, and fruits, as well as its biodiversity, is impressive. In addition, the seasonings and culinary traditions of the Pacific constantly inspire us. It's a region that many Colombians don't know very well, but it has immense gastronomic wealth.
Fine Dining Table: How do you view Colombia’s current standing in the world of gastronomy?
Sebastián and Mateo X.O: Colombia is dominating the scene. It has been a difficult journey, but one well fought. Today we see great restaurants, innovative concepts, and a more united culinary community. There are established leaders, as well as a new generation of young chefs who are doing things right, respecting producers, and building partnerships.
Fine Dining Table: What is Colombia lacking to reach the same level as Peru or Argentina in terms of gastronomy?
Sebastián and Mateo X.O: Time and greater confidence in what we have. We need to believe more in our culture, our roots, and the richness of our products. The good news is that more and more people are joining this movement, and that helps us continue to grow.
Fine Dining Table: What makes X.O. different from other restaurants?
Sebastián and Mateo X.O: Our focus is on building a connection with our guests. We go out to the tables ourselves, explain the dishes, and interact with our guests. The kitchen is completely open—there are no secrets. We show how we work with total honesty.
Also, everything we serve has a real story behind it. We don’t make up recipes or stories. What we share at the table is what we’ve experienced during our travels and explorations.
Fine Dining Table: To wrap up, what message would you like to share with 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, rich in culture, art, music, and, of course, a rapidly growing culinary scene. 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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